A parenting coordinator uses a child-focused process that addresses areas of high conflict, assists with the conflict resolution process, and at times, may have a decision-making role.
A Parenting Coordinator is:
- Appointed by the Court for a defined length of time
- Assigned a scope or range of responsibilities to help the parties resolve their conflicts
- May have the authority to decide on behalf of the parties in the children’s best interests to help determine the outcome of the dispute
When a PC, or parent coordinator, does not have Court approved authority to make decisions, then a PC may present a detailed report to the Court recommending an outcome for the Court’s consideration.
Typical areas of conflict where parties may need a PC are when:
- Co-parents are unable or unwilling to make joint parenting decisions
- When co-parents do not communicate effectively
- When one or both parents are unwilling to comply with parenting agreements