Parent coordination is a relatively new alternative dispute intervention that is used to manage high-conflict custody and visitation cases.  The frustration and expense of repeated trips to Court takes a toll on families, and Parenting Coordinators (PCs) can help resolve issues without litigation.  PCs are typically lawyers or therapists who have experience working with families where there is conflict about child-related issues.  A PC can help the parents mediate, for example, when the children will spend time with each parent during school holidays and vacations.  PCs can help parents communicate more effectively by serving as a buffer between them.  If parents are stuck in old communication dynamics, a PC can serve as an objective third-party with whom both parents can speak freely, thereby improving parental communication.

I can be retained as a PC to serve as a mediator only (helping the parties reach agreements but not having any authority to make decisions for them if they cannot agree) or as a mediator/arbitrator.  As a mediator/arbitrator, I am appointed by the Court as a PC, and I work with the parents to resolve the issues by mediation.  If there are still unresolved issues after mediation has been attempted, I am empowered to make a decision which is binding as a Court order, unless it is successfully appealed in Court.  Ultimately, the court has the final say over child custody and visitation issues, but a PC can drastically reduce the need to go to Court and therefore reduce conflict for the children in that family.

Parent Coordination has introduced a new, valuable tool for families in conflict.  I enjoy serving as a PC and look forward to serving more families and children in that role.