Purpose:  To better serve high conflict families who are subject to parenting plans by timely intervention in parenting disputes.

(It is expected that the parenting coordinator would assist parents in learning how to make decisions regarding their children in accordance with the parenting plan without involving the children or the court.)

Parenting Coordinator Qualifications:  Initially, a family law mediator or guardian ad litem. Willingness to be available to resolve parenting disputes on a timely basis.

Timing of Appointment:  After entry of a temporary or final parenting plan.

Selection of Cases:  Upon referral by the attorneys, a party to the case, or the Court.

Duration of Appointment:  Initial appointment will be for no more than ten hours. Appointment may be extended by agreement or Court Order. The Parenting Coordinator will bill for no more than three hours of background work, including parent interviews, preparing to assist the parties. 

Authority of the Parenting Coordinator:  The Parenting Coordinator will not have authority to order parties to do anything. The Parenting Coordinator will assist in resolving disputed issues by reducing misunderstandings, clarifying or interpreting the plan, working on compromise where appropriate, and making recommendations for resolution. Some problems are expected to require immediate attention. Others problems are expected to provide opportunities for long-term solutions and may involve clarifying language or minor adjustments to the Parenting Plan. The Parenting Coordinator may have such other authority as the parties agree in writing.

Responsibility of the Parenting Coordinator:

• meet in person with each parent after appointment

• review the current Parenting Plan, any restraining or protection orders, and any GAL report

• determine whether any hearings are currently scheduled and request Court Administration postpone hearings where appropriate

• maintain a service log of contacts, including agreements, recommendations, and follow-through of the parties

Responsibility of Parents:

• sign releases of records, similar to those on GAL appointment

• contact the Parenting Coordinator within 7 days of appointment

• attempt to resolve disputes through the Parenting Coordinator before initiating court action

Payment for Services:  Through June 2009, there is funding under a GAL state grant that could provide services to indigent parties. Those who are not indigent will be required to pay on a fee basis, including an advance payment.

Court Administration Duties:

• Notify the Parenting Coordinator of appointment

• Reschedule hearings upon the Parenting Coordinator’s request, as appropriate, with input from the parties and attorneys,

• Notify the Parenting Coordinator of non-compliance with conditions being monitored by the Case Coordinator (Unless there is an emergency, show causing of the parties will be delayed for one week to allow the Parenting Coordinator to work with the parties on the issue.)