How Can Parent Coordination Help Reduce Family Conflict?
Parent Coordination is a child-focused alternative dispute resolution process where a qualified professional (the parent coordinator) helps separated or divorced parents implement their parenting plan and resolve conflicts about their children. This process aims to protect children from parental conflict while helping parents make timely decisions in their children’s best interests.
Key aspects of parent coordination:
Role of the Parent Coordinator
- Helps parents interpret and implement existing court orders
- Mediates disputes about day-to-day parenting decisions
- Provides education about co-parenting and children’s needs
- Makes recommendations or decisions within their scope of authority
- Documents agreements and maintains communication records
- Common Issues Addressed
- Schedule adjustments and holiday planning
- Educational decisions
- Healthcare decisions
- Extracurricular activities
- Communication between parents
- Transportation and exchanges
- Behavioral issues across households
- Building in flexibility for changes
- Establishing clear decision-making protocols
- Professional Support
- Early intervention when problems arise
- Regular check-ins with parent coordinator
- Utilizing counseling when needed
- Maintaining legal counsel as necessary
The success of parent coordination and resolution of custody disputes largely depends on parents’ willingness to prioritize their children’s needs over their personal conflicts. When parents struggle to cooperate, having structured support systems and clear guidelines becomes crucial for maintaining stability in the children’s lives.
If you believe you and your family can benefit from a parent coordinator, feel free to reach out to Helene Bernstein, Esq., and schedule a consultation through her website at www.hbernsteinlawandmediation.com.
Helene Bernstein, Esq., of the Law and Mediation Office of Helene Bernstein, PLLC, an attorney and mediator for over 30 years has expanded her practice to expand parent coordination services. She is uniquely qualified to offer this service as she has represented adults and children is high conflict litigation custody cases while also offering mediation services as a neutral professional. While her practice is based in Brooklyn, New York (near Prospect Park and Brownstone Brooklyn), she also provides remote appointments and can assist clients in Manhattan if necessary. Ms. Bernstein is a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), a professional organization that provides education and support to parent coordinators. Her comprehensive website is located at www.hbernsteinlawandmediation.com.
*This blog is considered attorney advertising and was assisted with the use of AI.