When parents divorce or go through a separation, they may need someone outside of the situation to step in to lend a hand. For example, they could consult a parenting coordinator, who is a neutral professional, to help them manage ongoing disputes about things like daily child decisions, communication and parenting time.
Parenting coordinators are often used when there’s frequent conflict after a parenting plan is already in place, or when one is being crafted. The goal of bringing this professional in is to reduce the frequency of disagreements and minimize the chance of routine issues turning into much larger disputes.
How does the process work?
A parenting coordinator isn’t meant to replace a parenting plan. Instead, they will review it to determine what issues may need to be addressed. They can help parents to understand the plan so they can follow it. Parents can meet with the parenting coordinator together, separately or through written options. The scope of duty depends on the court order and jurisdictional considerations. Some parenting coordinators help parents to come to agreements, but others may make recommendations or decisions about specific issues.
Parenting coordinators aren’t part of every case involving children. For example, cases that involve intimidation, safety concerns or significant power imbalances may not be suitable for parenting coordinators to assist with. It’s important for parents to recognize that parenting coordinators are conflict management tools that can offer support; however, this doesn’t do away with fundamental rights that parents and children have.
Anyone who’s going through issues with child custody or a parenting plan should ensure that they have the assistance of a legal professional familiar with these matters. This can help them to learn their options and make a plan for moving forward.