Parenting Coordination After Separation or Divorce

Co-parenting after a separation or divorce isn’t always easy.

When emotions are still running high or there’s a history of conflict, parenting coordination can be a practical solution. It is an alternative dispute resolution process that allows parents to work with a neutral professional, called a ‘Parenting Coordinator’, to resolve ongoing parenting issues outside of court.

Who can be a Parenting Coordinator, and what can they help with?

A Parenting Coordinator is typically a lawyer, psychologist, or social worker with training in family conflict. They can assist with issues such as, but not limited to:

• Day-to-day parenting matters;

• School and extracurricular activity planning;

• Vacation and holiday schedules;

• Pick-up and drop-off arrangements;

• Communication between parents or with the children;

• Minor medical or health care decisions; or

• Introducing new partners to the children.

Parenting coordination is especially beneficial in high-conflict situations where ongoing disagreements affect the children’s well-being. By working with a Parenting Coordinator, many families are able to reduce tension and get back to focusing on the needs of their children.

How to retain a Parenting Coordinator

Parents can agree to use a Parenting Coordinator voluntarily, be referred by their lawyers, or enter into a consent order, which is filed with the court. Parents can specify the issues the Parenting Coordinator will have authority over.

Parenting Coordinators can also act as arbitrators and make binding decisions on certain issues, if the Parenting Coordinator is given such authority by the parents. This means when parents cannot come to an agreement on certain issue(s), the Parenting Coordinator can make a binding decision regarding those issue(s). This process allows families to resolve matters quickly without the need to litigate in court.

Cost and Duration

The cost of parenting coordination varies depending on the Parenting Coordinator’s qualifications and the frequency of involvement. Typically, fees are shared equally between parents. Some families may only require a few months of support, while others may benefit from longer-term assistance depending on the level of conflict between the parties.

You don’t have to navigate parenting challenges alone. If you’re curious about parenting coordination or want help deciding if it’s right for your family, we’d be happy to talk things through.