Parenting Coordinator
A mental health or legal professional appointed by the court to help high-conflict parents resolve day-to-day parenting disputes without returning to court.
Understanding Parenting Coordinator
Parenting coordinators (PCs) serve as a combination of mediator, educator, and sometimes quasi-arbitrator for ongoing custody disputes. They help parents implement the parenting plan, resolve scheduling conflicts, manage communication issues, and make minor decisions when parents cannot agree. In some jurisdictions, the PC has authority to make binding decisions on specific issues. PCs are typically used in high-conflict cases where the parents repeatedly return to court over minor disputes. Costs are usually shared between the parents.
Real-World Examples
The court appointed a parenting coordinator at $200/hour to resolve ongoing disputes about vacation scheduling and extracurricular activities.
Related Terms
A co-parenting approach for high-conflict situations where each parent operates independently with minimal direct communication.
MediatorA trained neutral professional who facilitates negotiations between divorcing spouses to help them reach voluntary agreements.
Guardian ad LitemA court-appointed advocate, often an attorney, who represents the best interests of a child in custody or divorce proceedings.
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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.