A parenting coordinator is useful for parents who would otherwise find themselves in court repeatedly seeking orders regarding relatively trivial disputes. Some parents simply cannot resolve any disputes amongst themselves and a parenting coordinator can act as a mediator-arbitrator. They will first attempt to facilitate an agreement (like a mediator) and if that doesn’t work, the parenting coordinator can make a binding determination (like an arbitrator).

The Parenting Coordinator cannot not make determinations in respect of:

• a change to the guardianship of a child;
• a change in the allocation of parental responsibilities;
• giving parenting time or contact with a child to a person who does not have parenting time or contact with the child;
• a substantial change to the parenting time or contact with a child;
• the relocation of a child,
• any matters excluded by the Parenting Coordinator Retainer Agreement, or by court order; or
• that which would affect the division or possession of property, or the division of family assets.

The Parenting Coordinator may provide any of the following services:

• assist with the implementation, maintenance and monitoring of an agreement, order or written decision concerning children (“Parenting Plan”);
• settle anticipated or actual conflicts in children’s scheduling;
• clarify and resolve different interpretations of or ambiguities in a Parenting Plan, and develop new provisions to address situations that were not anticipated;
• monitor children’s adjustment to a Parenting Plan;
• facilitate children’s relationship with each Parent;
• assist the parents in communicating more effectively with one another;
• facilitate the exchange of information about child(ren) and their routines;
• assist the parents in developing provisions for the transport of clothing, equipment, toys and personal possessions between the parents’ households;
• assist the parents in resolving disputes between them respecting parenting responsibilities; and
• any additional services that the parents may agree to in writing, subject to the limitations outline above.

The Parenting Coordinator may consult, meet with, or obtain information from third parties, including the parents’ lawyers, family members, third-party caregivers, teachers, counsellors, therapists, and health care professionals.

The Parenting Coordinator’s decisions in the determination-making process are binding upon the parents but subject to review by the Court. The Parenting Coordinator will deliver to the parents a written, signed statement of all determinations, including the reasons and basis for the determination.

Parenting coordinators are expensive, but it is wiser to invest in one person who can make decisions rather than both people paying their own lawyers to repeatedly go to court.

A parenting coordinator is a neutral third-party professional who assists separated or divorced parents in managing and resolving conflicts related to co-parenting. Their role is to facilitate effective communication, help parents make decisions in the best interests of their children, and ensure that the parenting plan or custody arrangement is followed. Parenting coordinators are often used in high-conflict situations where parents struggle to cooperate or reach agreements on issues concerning their children.
How Can a Parenting Coordinator Help You Co-Parent with Your Former Spouse?

1. Reducing Conflict: Parenting coordinators work to reduce conflict between you and your former spouse by serving as a mediator. They facilitate discussions, helping both parties communicate more effectively and respectfully, which can alleviate tension and prevent disputes from escalating.
2. Implementing Parenting Plans: A parenting coordinator ensures that both parents adhere to the agreed-upon parenting plan or custody arrangement. If issues arise over scheduling, decision-making, or other parenting responsibilities, the coordinator helps resolve these disagreements in a fair and child-focused manner.
3. Decision-Making Support: In situations where parents cannot agree on important decisions (such as education, health care, or extracurricular activities), the parenting coordinator may provide recommendations or even make decisions on behalf of the parents, depending on the authority granted to them by the court or agreement.
4. Improving Communication: Effective co-parenting requires clear and constructive communication. Parenting coordinators coach parents on how to communicate better with each other, focusing on the needs of the children and minimizing misunderstandings.
5. De-escalating Disputes: If disagreements arise, the parenting coordinator intervenes before matters become contentious. Their goal is to mediate and resolve issues in a way that prioritizes the well-being of the children and maintains stability.
6. Encouraging Consistency: Children thrive in stable and consistent environments. A parenting coordinator helps ensure that both parents follow consistent rules, schedules, and expectations, minimizing disruption in the child’s life.
7. Providing Emotional Support: Parenting coordinators can also provide emotional support and guidance to parents, helping them manage the stress and challenges of co-parenting after a separation or divorce.
8. Preventing Litigation: By resolving disputes and facilitating cooperation outside of the courtroom, a parenting coordinator can help avoid the costs, stress, and delays associated with litigation. This makes the co-parenting process smoother and less adversarial.

When Is a Parenting Coordinator Typically Involved?

• High-conflict divorces or separations
• Ongoing disputes over custody or visitation
• Communication breakdowns between co-parents
• Non-compliance with court orders or parenting plans
• Need for mediation in decision-making regarding the children

Is a Parenting Coordinator Right for You?
If you and your former spouse are struggling to co-parent effectively and the conflict is affecting your children, working with a parenting coordinator may be a valuable step. They provide a structured environment to resolve issues, promote collaboration, and keep the focus on what’s best for your children.

Ultimately, a parenting coordinator can be a valuable resource in helping you navigate the complexities of co-parenting, ensuring that your children’s needs remain the priority while reducing the strain of ongoing disputes.