---
title: Custody
category: Scene Inspector
tags: scene inspector, custody, assets, continuity
contextKey: sceneInspector.custody
micro: Track who has or controls important assets.
quickTitle: Asset custody
quickSummary: Custody records possession, transfer and responsibility for important story items.
screenshot:
---

# Overview

Custody is about who has an asset, controls it, guards it or is responsible for it. It is especially useful for evidence, weapons, keys, letters, documents and valuables.

Custody can differ from location. A car may be parked outside, but one character may hold the keys. A document may be in a safe, but another character may control access.

# Continuity Benefits

Custody helps PlotDirector spot impossible possession. If Beth gives the key to Arun in one scene, Beth should not use it later unless it returns to her or a duplicate exists.

# Ownership Versus Possession

Ownership is who the object belongs to. Possession is who has it now. Control is who can use or access it. These can be different: a stolen car, borrowed keys, guarded evidence or a document locked in someone else's safe.

Use custody events for transfers, thefts, handoffs, losses, recoveries and moments where control changes.

# Related Guides

- [Assets](/Help/Article/sceneInspector.assets)
- [Timeline Asset Events](/Help/Article/timeline.assetEvents)
- [Continuity Warnings](/Help/Article/warnings.overview)
