Understanding the Role of a Parenting Coordinator

Conflict might seem unavoidable when getting divorced or discussing child-related matters with a coparent. In cases where there are high conflicts about the terms of a parenting plan, the Court may appoint a parenting coordinator to guide parents through their disagreements.

A parenting coordinator is not appointed to represent children or parties in a legal proceeding, and communications are generally not confidential. Pursuant to the Illinois Supreme Court Rule 909, parenting coordinators are appointed after a parenting plan, or an allocation judgment, is entered and ordered by the Court. Parents may agree, in writing, to hire a parenting coordinator to help them resolve ongoing issues.  A parenting plan includes information regarding the child, such as where the child will live and how parenting time will be allocated. Due to the timeline of their appointment, parenting coordinators frequently work with parents after their divorce.

Parenting coordinators are neutral and serve the purpose of ensuring that parents resolve their conflicts and facilitate disagreements without bringing the matter before a judge. Their role is limited to what is ordered and agreed to by the parties. They focus on implementing a child-focused alternative dispute resolution when there is existing conflict between parents about the terms of their parenting plan.

Parenting coordinators do not file motions, make initial allocations of parenting time, or make recommendations about decision-making responsibilities and relocation. Instead, they facilitate resolution between parents and help parents who are unable to cooperate or communicate effectively about child-related issues. Parenting coordinators monitor parental behaviors, mediate conflicts, recommend guidelines for communication and resources as needed, document allegations of noncompliance, and make recommendations to the Court. Their involvement provides structure for parents and helps them move towards resolution.

Parenting coordination includes a wide range of involvement, including assessments, education, case and conflict management, dispute resolution, and decision-making when there is conflict. The goal is to protect and sustain a healthy relationship between the child and their parents, and to shield children from the potential negative impacts resulting from parental conflict. Their role is important for assisting parents in implementing their parenting plan, reducing any misunderstandings, clarifying priorities and schedules, and educating parents on their children’s needs. This involvement may be beneficial in aiding parents in focusing on improving parent-child relationships and avoiding unnecessary re-litigation over child-related issues. Some issues that might be addressed by the parenting coordinator are communication problems, if a parent is not following the parenting plan, changes in schedules, differences in interpretation of the parenting plan, and holiday parenting time.

Parenting coordinators are typically a licensed mental health professional or family law attorney. In order to become a parenting coordinator in Cook County, it is recommended that they obtain a juris doctor or master’s degree in social work or counseling, have 5 years of experience in law or mental health fields, complete an approved course on domestic violence, and attend 4 hours of continuing education programs every year. Additionally, they must apply, complete interviews with members of the Domestic Relations Division Parenting Coordinator Screening Committee, and attend proper training before being placed on an active roster of parenting coordinators.

Contact O. Long Law, LLC today to connect with one of our experienced family law attorneys.