Divorce can be a stressful and life-altering event for all family members, including children. When a family divides, the legal, financial, and emotional complexities that arise can feel overwhelming. The Bishop Law Group knows the strain and hardships that family law cases present. We are here to guide you through these troubling times with expertise and compassion.
At The Bishop Law Group, our seasoned Baltimore family lawyers will listen to your side of the story, answer your questions, and address your concerns. We know what a difficult time this is for you and your family, and we strive to find the most effective and cost-efficient solution to your problems. Above all, this is your life and your case; we will not make any decisions without your involvement and approval.
If you are seeking an experienced and compassionate family law attorney you can trust, call The Bishop Law Group today to discuss the details of your case. Our firm proudly serves clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Ocean City, and other nearby areas.
Parenting Coordination
Parenting coordination is a collaborative process designed to help parents address conflicts and improve their ability to parent effectively. A Parenting Coordinator (PC) serves as a neutral party, typically a trained mental health or legal professional with mediation experience. The PC educates parents about their children’s needs and guides them toward constructive solutions to meet those needs.
For a free legal consultation, call (410) 390-3101
When to Consider Parenting Coordination
Parenting coordination is beneficial in protecting the emotional and physical well-being of children, especially in high-conflict cases. Parental disagreements can negatively impact a child’s adjustment, development, and self-esteem. Parenting coordination may be appropriate in situations where:
- Parents have difficulty communicating about their children’s welfare.
- Parents cannot agree on issues related to their children.
- Complex child-related matters require intensive case management.
Importance of Parenting Coordination
A central principle of parenting coordination is that parents retain responsibility for making decisions about their children’s well-being. When parents actively engage in the decision-making process, outcomes are often more favorable for both the parents and the children.
Research on the divorce process shows that inter-parental conflict—rather than the divorce itself or the specifics of visitation schedules—is the most significant factor affecting children’s adjustment after a divorce. Reducing such conflict is critical to promoting healthy outcomes for children.
How to Obtain a Parenting Coordinator
Parenting coordination can be initiated voluntarily by the parents or ordered by the court.
Voluntary Agreement
If both parents agree to work with a PC, they may request that the court formalize their arrangement through a consent order. This document outlines the terms of the agreement, which must:
- Be in writing and signed by the parents and the PC
- Specify the services to be provided by the PC
- Define the PC’s access to confidential information and whether that information may be shared with the court or the other parent
- State the agreed-upon payment for the PC’s services
- Ensure that the arrangement is in the best interests of the child
Court-Ordered Parenting Coordination
In some cases, a court may require parents to work with a PC. A PC may also be authorized to make minor, temporary decisions about custody or visitation if both parents agree or the court orders it.
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How Parenting Coordination Works
The PC’s primary role is to help parents develop and implement a parenting plan that meets the child’s needs. This includes resolving disputes, educating parents about healthy behaviors, and monitoring compliance with the agreed plan.
Parenting coordination often involves families dealing with inappropriate or harmful conflict. PCs are trained to work with these challenging situations by:
- Identifying Sources of Conflict: Analyzing the root causes of disagreements
- Teaching Skills: Helping parents develop communication, anger management, and conflict resolution skills
- Collaborating with Others: Facilitating communication with individuals involved in the child’s life, such as teachers, doctors, therapists, or grandparents
Parenting coordination may take place during or after a divorce and can continue for years if necessary. PCs may be available to assist families with future conflicts as they arise.
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Confidentiality in Parenting Coordination
Parenting coordination differs from therapy in that it is not confidential. While the process is structured to resolve disputes and demonstrate shared parental responsibilities, it is not designed for therapeutic purposes.
Communication With the Court
- PCs may testify as factual witnesses at court hearings. However, they are generally prohibited from discussing the case with the court or court staff.
- If a PC believes that a party or child is in imminent physical or emotional danger, they are required to report the concern to the court.
Contact a Baltimore Family Law Attorney Today
If you or someone you know needs assistance with parent coordination or just wants to know more about it, The Bishop Law Group can provide guidance throughout the process. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
