Can Parenting Coordinators Help Resolve Custody Disputes in Florida?
Even when divorced or separated couples usually work well together as co-parents, disagreements over education, extra-curricular activities, doctor visits, or communications with the child can still occur. If such disagreements happen often, going back to court over every dispute is costly and stressful. In certain cases, a parenting coordinator can be of great assistance to parents in resolving such disputes.
What is a parenting coordinator?
The parenting coordinator is a third party, neutral individual who is chosen either by the court or by mutual agreement of the parents, with the aim of ensuring compliance with an existing parenting plan.
Parenting coordinators are typically lawyers or mental health practitioners trained in family disputes and child development.
Parenting coordinators are not involved in making decisions about which parent gets custody nor do they have any mandate to alter an existing parenting plan.
What issues can parenting coordinators address?
Some of the common problems faced by many parents in their day-to-day lives that can lead to conflicts include:
- Disputes related to scheduling and exchanging time
- Disputes related to school or other extra-curricular activities
- Healthcare-related issues
- Transportation issues
- Issues related to taking part in summer camp or any other event
- Communication related to the children’s requirements
- Clarification of any misunderstanding in the parenting arrangement
With the help of a parenting coordinator, parents can easily avoid any small dispute becoming major litigation.
When is a parenting coordinator appropriate?
In essence, parenting coordination tends to work well when parents are in constant conflict yet equally dedicated to maintaining their relationship with their children. Parenting coordinators will also be an option when the parents cannot communicate with each other, making it impossible to implement the plan effectively.
Nonetheless, parenting coordination does not suit all cases, with courts keenly examining its suitability, especially in cases of domestic abuse, coercion, or when there are serious security issues.
Benefits of parenting coordinators
Parenting coordination can provide several benefits. First, it helps the parents concentrate on what is best for their children as opposed to their quarrels. Also, it can lead to fewer motions being submitted to the courts since this process will take less time and money for the family.
One of the main advantages that children may experience is better communication and conflict resolution between parents.
An Experienced St. Petersburg Family Law Attorney Can Help
Parenting coordinators can be useful for families facing numerous co-parenting problems. A St. Petersburg, Florida, lawyer specializing in family law will be able to tell you if a parenting coordinator is right for your case, defend your interests, and ensure that everything done by both parents works to the advantage of your child. Call the St. Petersburg family lawyers at the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman today, and we can begin discussing your situation right away.
