What is a Parenting Coordinator and How Can They Help in High-Conflict Cases?

When co-parenting becomes a source of constant conflict, even the smallest decisions can feel like a battle. The stress of ongoing disagreements can take a heavy toll on both you and your children. In these high-conflict situations, a Parenting Coordinator (PC) can be an invaluable resource, offering a path toward more peaceful and effective co-parenting. At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we know how difficult these dynamics can be, and we are here to provide the guidance and support you need to protect your child’s well-being.

A Parenting Coordinator is a neutral third party, often an attorney or mental health professional with specialized training, appointed to help parents resolve day-to-day disputes outside of court. Their primary goal is to help you successfully implement your parenting plan and reduce conflict.

A PC can assist your family by:

• Facilitating calm and productive communication.
• Mediating and resolving specific disputes in real-time.
• Helping interpret and implement the existing parenting plan.
• Educating parents on the impact of conflict on children.

What is the Role of a Parenting Coordinator?

Think of a Parenting Coordinator as a guide who helps you navigate the co-parenting journey after your parenting plan is in place. Their role is not to change your court order but to help you and your co-parent live by it. When a disagreement arises over the interpretation of the plan, such as scheduling holiday time, coordinating extracurricular activities, or managing last-minute changes, a PC can step in to provide clarity and help you reach a consensus. This process keeps minor issues from escalating into major legal battles, saving you time, money, and emotional distress.

For example, if your parenting plan states that you will share the cost of activities but doesn’t specify which ones, a disagreement over signing your child up for an expensive travel sports league can quickly become contentious. Instead of filing a motion in court, you can bring the issue to your PC. They will help you discuss the issue productively, focusing on the child’s best interest and your family’s financial realities, to find a workable solution.

How Does a Parenting Coordinator Manage Disputes?

In high-conflict cases, communication often breaks down completely. A PC works to re-establish a functional line of communication focused solely on the needs of the children. They can teach parents skills for de-escalation and respectful dialogue, often through co-parenting consulting. The PC acts as a neutral facilitator, ensuring both parents have an opportunity to be heard while keeping the conversation on track.

If parents still cannot agree after discussion and mediation, a PC may be given the authority to make a recommendation or, in some cases, a binding decision on minor issues. This power is defined by the court order appointing them and is limited to clarifying or implementing the existing parenting plan. This immediate, on-the-ground resolution is crucial for reducing the friction that can harm a child’s sense of stability.

Is a Parenting Coordinator Right for Your Family?

If you find yourself constantly returning to court over minor parenting disagreements or if every conversation with your co-parent turns into an argument, a Parenting Coordinator might be the solution. This process is especially beneficial for families where high emotions or personality conflicts make cooperation seem impossible. By investing in a PC, you are investing in a more peaceful future for your child.

At Hammer Serna & Quinn, LLC, we have seen firsthand how effective parenting coordination can be in transforming family dynamics. We can help you determine if this service is the right fit for your situation and guide you through the process of appointing a PC. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to learn more about how we can provide compassionate legal support and help you prioritize your child’s well-being.