Baltimore & Towson Lawyer Discusses: Should You Use a Parenting Coordinator?
Child Custody issues can lead to heated arguments and constant debates between divorcing parents -- arguments that often continue well beyond the court’s final decision with respect to custody. In such cases, the couple may consider using a parenting coordinator. But what is the purpose of a parenting coordinator and how can one help?
What is Parenting Coordination?
Maryland Rule 9-205.2 notes that parenting coordination is the process by which parents work with coordinators in an effort to lower the effects (or possible effects) of conflict on the child or children. Simply stated, the process focuses on the child and helps parents in high conflict situations identify and understand the source of their conflict.
The Role of Parenting Coordinators
Parenting Coordinators (PCs) help parents understand their child’s needs and, with court approval and/or party approval, the PC is permitted to make decisions that are “minor, temporary modifications” to the court-ordered child access provisions, but only if authorized by the judgment or a post-judgement order and the parents agree on the record or in writing that the PC may do so.
Essentially, there are three aspects of a PC’s job. First, he or she is responsible for enlightening and educating parents with respect to the various issues involved in their particular situations. Second, the PC acts as a mediator between the parents in situations involving everyday parenting. Lastly, the PC acts as an arbitrator with respect to the day-to-day issues that arise in instances where the parents simply are unable to reach an agreement on their own.
It is not uncommon for PCs to be mental health providers or family law attorneys. Mental health providers tend to be well equipped to handle the educational aspects of the job, along with the mediation portion, while family law lawyers are typically prepared to handle all three aspects of the job.
Reasons Why You May Want to Consider Using a Parenting Coordinator
Your Towson child custody lawyer knows that using a PC may be in everyone’s best interest, especially in highly-contested child custody battles. There are several reasons why a PC may be appropriate for your situation, many of which directly relate to the child or children involved in the case.
A PC can help reduce the amount of stress that a child often experiences throughout the divorce process. Additionally, PCs can help co-parents enjoy their time with their kids instead of focusing so much on the ongoing battles.
PCs also help to create environments that are both therapeutic and beneficial for kids to be able to enjoy time with extended family members and feel comfortable with discussing their feelings.
Using parenting coordinators can also lower the legal fees incurred as part of the case and help to eliminate the amount of energy spent going in circles about various issues. Less time will be spent in the courtroom, which allows for more time to be spent focusing on careers or new relationships instead of litigation.
Call (410) 321-4994 For a Free Consultation
Call The Law Offices of Amar S. Weisman at (410) 321-4994 to schedule a Free Consultation. The Purpose of the consultation is to determine whether you want to retain this law firm as your Baltimore County & Harford County Family Lawyer. If you do wish to proceed, then you must pay a retainer. See Our Policy on Fees and Costs. The family firm is located next to The Circuit Court for Baltimore County, at 1018 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204.
