PARENTING COORDINATION
Parenting Coordination — Miller Mediation & Arbitration
Overview
Parenting Coordination is a narrow, post-agreement process designed to assist parents in implementing an existing Parenting Plan — not to create one. It functions as a micro Mediation–Arbitration model focused on resolving specific issues that arise within an established parenting framework.
What Parenting Coordination *Does*
- Interprets existing provisions
- Clarifies ambiguous or silent clauses
- Mediates small disputes involving logistics, communication, or transitions
- Issues narrow, binding decisions when mediation is unsuccessful
- Provides quick resolution of micro-issues to avoid escalation
- Keeps matters out of court by addressing micro-issues quickly and efficiently
What Parenting Coordination *Does Not* Do
- Does not draft or redesign Parenting Plans
- Does not develop step-up or gradual schedules
- Does not renegotiate major custodial terms
- Does not rebuild decision-making frameworks
- Does not resolve foundational disputes suited to comprehensive mediation
- Does not operate as therapy or communication coaching
Appropriate Use of PC
PC is a secondary process. It applies the existing parenting architecture created through Closed Mediation, Med/Arb, or Court Orders. It is not a substitute for comprehensive negotiation.
Summary Line
Parenting Coordination is a micro Med/Arb process that applies the existing parenting plan — not a process that builds one.
PC is appropriate when:
• A Parenting Plan or Order already exists,
• Parents generally agree to follow it,
• But discrete disagreements continue to emerge about interpretation, logistics, or day-to-day implementation.
In simple terms:
PC is the secondary med/arb process, appropriate after the primary parenting architecture has been created through Closed Mediation, Med/Arb, or Court Orders.
It is not a substitute for a comprehensive parenting negotiation.
PC addresses what the parenting plan left unclear —not what the parenting plan failed to create.
When PC works best:
When parents need:
• Quick, efficient resolution of micro-issues
• A neutral professional who can interpret the existing plan
• A decisive model that prevents escalation
• A structured alternative to ongoing conflict
• Predictable micro-arbitration if mediation fails