Parenting Coordination | PC:

PC is a specialized dispute resolution process designed to help separated or divorced parents effectively manage and implement their parenting plans, particularly in situations with high conflict or ongoing disputes.

To better describe what Parenting Coordination is, let us first explore what mediation/arbitration is as a process.

Mediation | Arbitration - Primary

Mediation/Arbitration, often referred to as Med/Arb, is a primary med/arb process around issues such as decision making (formerly custody) and parenting time (formerly access). It also deals with mobility and relocation matters. Within this process, one starts with mediation and any unresolved issues proceed to final binding arbitration. Term limits are not applicable for primary med/arb. It has a defined start date and likely approximation of the end date by way of a mediation on consensus or by way of final arbitration. 

While PC | Parenting Coordination - Secondary

1. Parenting Coordination is a Secondary med/arb process. 

2. Main purpose is to be the interpreter and enforcer of the road map laid out by the Bar and the Bench.

3. Parenting Coordinator Must Not veer from agreed upon binding Orders, Minutes of Settlement or Parenting Plans. 

4. Essentially, the PC is NOT permitted to deviate nor alter any existing parenting arrangement agreements or final court orders. 

5. It is bi-directional process as one mediates and arbitrates and often returns to the mediation role after such time that an Arbitration was held and delivered.

6. Parenting Coordination has very defined term limits. 

7. Term limits range from 6 to 18 months and could be even longer based on fit and availability. Term limits bind parties but it does not bind the parenting coordinator.

In Summary:

Parenting Coordination is inherently a bi-directional process that blends elements of both mediation and arbitration. At its core, it facilitates ongoing, two-way communication between co-parents, with a strong focus on helping them resolve day-to-day issues through a collaborative, mediated approach.

However, when consensus cannot be reached on specific, often small but impactful matters — such as scheduling changes or decision-making disagreements — the Parenting Coordinator is empowered to make binding determinations within the scope of their authority. 

Once that issue is resolved, the process shifts back into a mediation-oriented mode, fostering dialogue and cooperation moving forward. This ability to fluidly move between facilitative and directive roles, always grounded in the best interests of the child, makes Parenting Coordination uniquely suited to high-conflict or complex co-parenting dynamics.