Parenting Co-ordination
What is a Parenting Coordinator?
Parenting coordination is a method used to manage ongoing parenting issues after establishing a parenting plan. These plans are usually formalized through a court order or a written agreement and typically address guardianship, parenting responsibilities, and parenting time (or access). However, no agreement can anticipate every possible situation—parenting coordination steps in when parents encounter difficulties implementing the terms of their agreement or court order.
A Parenting Coordinator offers an alternative to returning to court. When parents cannot resolve a dispute independently, the Parenting Coordinator makes a final, binding decision that both parents must follow.
How Does It Work?
When a conflict arises, either parent can contact the Parenting Coordinator. The Coordinator will listen to both perspectives and, when appropriate, consider the child's wishes. The goal is to help parents reach a mutual agreement. If that proves unsuccessful, the Coordinator will issue a binding decision.
For example, a court order might state that holiday time should be shared equally between the parents, but it may not specify exact dates. In the past, parents would have had to return to court to resolve such disputes—often spending thousands of dollars and waiting months for a resolution. A Parenting Coordinator, however, can hear both sides (and possibly consult the child), help facilitate a resolution, and if necessary, make a binding decision—similar to how a judge would. Unlike court, the process is quicker, more affordable, and doesn't require lawyers. Costs are typically shared between the parents.
One of the main advantages of using a Parenting Coordinator is accessibility. Disputes can be addressed in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing. There’s no need for both parents to be in the same location. Decisions can even be made by phone, as long as a written summary is provided shortly afterward.
At Stark Alternative Dispute Resolution, we charge $150.00 per hour for parenting coordination services. This fee is usually divided between the parents based on their respective incomes, similar to how special expenses are handled. Most disputes can be resolved for a few hundred dollars—much less than the cost of going to court.
Parents can return to the Parenting Coordinator for help with future disagreements. Over time, the Coordinator equips both parties with the skills to resolve issues independently. They also assist in improving communication and steering conversations away from conflict-triggering topics.
Ready to Begin?
Contact Stark Alternative Dispute Resolution below today to schedule your initial consultation.