PC v Med/Arb | Key Distrinctions

Primary Med/Arb Overview

 ────────────────────────────────────────

Primary Med/Arb is a one-directional dispute resolution process used for major parenting issues such as decision-making responsibility, parenting time, and relocation. The process begins with mediation; any unresolved issues proceed to final, binding arbitration. There are no term limits, and the practitioner’s involvement concludes once the mediation or arbitration is complete.

Parenting Coordination (PC) Overview

 ────────────────────────────────────────

Parenting Coordination is a secondary med/arb process that is bi-directional and strictly bound by existing parenting agreements and court orders. The PC does not alter or revise these orders but instead interprets, applies, and enforces the roadmap established by counsel and the court. PC contracts must have clarity and enforceability built into them.

Risk, Scarcity, and Practitioner Role

 ────────────────────────────────────────

PC work is among the most specialized and high-risk services in Family Law. Despite the prevalence of high-conflict families, only a small number of qualified Parenting Coordinators practice in major cities. 

The Structural Paradox of PC Work

 ────────────────────────────────────────

Unlike Primary Med/Arb, where the practitioner’s involvement ends after issuing an Award, a Parenting Coordinator must continue working with the family throughout the contractual term—even after rendering binding decisions. Term limits bind the parties but not the PC, who may need to withdraw or recuse themselves if neutrality cannot be preserved.