Parenting Coordination
MEDIATION
Save time, Save Money, and stay out of court
Parenting Schedule Conflicts
Resolving such conflicts often requires open and honest communication between co-parents, along with a willingness to find practical solutions.
Vacation & Holiday Conflicts
Conflicts can arise when both parents want to celebrate important holidays with the children but have different expectations or commitments.
Co-Parenting Conflicts & Concerns
Co-parents may find it challenging to agree on visitation and custody schedules that work for both parties. Disagreements over Parenting Styles, and Disputes over Visitation and Custody Schedules.
Communication
Use Respectful and Constructive Language: Effective communication between co-parents requires using respectful and constructive language, even in challenging or emotionally charged situations.
Peace is Priceless
They both recognize the negative impact these conflicts have on their children’s well-being and understand the importance of creating a peaceful co-parenting environment.
Avoiding Court
Emotional and Psychological Impact on Children: Custody battles in family court can expose children to high levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil.
Attorney Help
An attorney can act as an independent consultant to save on fees and cost, and their assistance can be very useful in cases where both parties may be more reasonable.
Parents in High-Conflict Custody Disputes Know the Revolving Door of the Courthouse
Pros
2. Decision-Making Support: When parents have difficulty reaching agreements on matters such as visitation schedules, education, medical decisions, or extracurricular activities, a parenting coordinator can provide guidance and make recommendations based on the best interests of the child. This can reduce the burden on parents and promote more efficient decision-making.
3. Consistency and Stability: Parenting coordinators help establish and enforce consistent parenting plans and guidelines. By setting clear expectations and promoting stability in the children’s lives, parenting coordinators can minimize confusion and create a more predictable environment for the children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is parenting coordination?
Parenting coordination is a process in which a neutral third-party professional assists co-parents in resolving disputes and improving their co-parenting relationship. The parenting coordinator helps facilitate communication, assists in making decisions regarding parenting issues, and helps implement and monitor the parenting plan.
When to you use a parenting coordinator?
Anger (justified or otherwise)
Distrust
Poor communication
Lack of cooperation
Verbal abuse
Threats
Physical aggression
Domestic violence
Excessive litigation
How to get a parenting coordinator in California?
If you can agree that a parenting coordinator would help, you can stipulate to the appointment of a specific parent coordinator and give them authority to monitor and enforce your parenting plan by filing a stipulation with the court.
When is parenting coordination beneficial?
Parenting coordination is beneficial in high-conflict co-parenting situations where communication and decision-making are challenging. It can be used during or after a divorce or separation to address ongoing parenting disputes, such as visitation schedules, holidays, discipline, education, and medical decisions.
How does parenting coordination differ from mediation?
While both parenting coordination and mediation involve a neutral third party, they differ in their scope and goals. Mediation focuses on resolving specific issues through negotiation and reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. Parenting coordination, on the other hand, involves ongoing assistance and decision-making support for a range of parenting issues over an extended period. Parenting coordinators often have the authority to make recommendations or decisions when necessary.
How long does parenting coordination typically last?
The duration of parenting coordination varies depending on the needs of the co-parents and the complexity of the situation. It can range from several months to a few years, depending on the progress made, the level of conflict, and the effectiveness of the co-parenting relationship.
How confidential is parenting coordination?
Parenting coordinators are subject to confidentiality requirements, and any communications made during the parenting coordination process are privileged. However, certain exceptions to confidentiality may apply, such as in cases involving child abuse or imminent danger.
How can parenting coordination benefit children?
Parenting coordination aims to create a more stable and cooperative co-parenting environment, which ultimately benefits children. By reducing conflict, improving communication, and ensuring consistent parenting practices, parenting coordination helps children feel more secure, promotes healthy development, and reduces the negative impact of parental conflict on their well-being.
Examples of Parenting Coordination
Sarah and John have recently gone through a divorce, and they are struggling with co-parenting their two children. They find themselves constantly arguing over visitation schedules, decision-making, and communication. Recognizing the need for assistance, they decide to engage a parenting coordinator. The parenting coordinator helps Sarah and John establish a more structured and balanced visitation schedule that takes into account the children’s needs and their parents’ availability. The coordinator also facilitates communication between them, ensuring that important information about the children is shared effectively. Through the parenting coordinator’s guidance, Sarah and John learn to communicate more respectfully and resolve conflicts more peacefully, creating a healthier co-parenting dynamic for the benefit of their children.
Mark and Lisa have been separated for several years, and despite having a parenting plan in place, they frequently find themselves in disagreements over various parenting issues. These conflicts often result in tension and negatively impact their children. Seeking a solution to their ongoing disputes, they decide to involve a parenting coordinator. The coordinator assists Mark and Lisa in clarifying and refining their parenting plan, addressing specific areas of conflict. With the help of the coordinator, they establish clearer guidelines for decision-making, communication protocols, and holiday schedules. The parenting coordinator also helps them develop strategies for resolving disagreements and encourages them to focus on the best interests of their children. As a result, Mark and Lisa experience a reduction in conflicts, improved communication, and a more cooperative co-parenting relationship that allows their children to thrive in a healthier environment.
Experience You Can Trust
Extensive Experience: Sean Collinson brings 20 years of experience as a mediator.
Recognized Expertise: Four-time bestselling author and multiple television appearances on Dr. Phil.
Child-Centered Approach: Sean Collinson's approach prioritizes the well-being and best interests of the children involved in the case.
save time, save money, and stay out of court
Call now for a Free Consultation
(818) 402-7 5 0 0
Client Reviews
★★★★★
I was referred to Sean by a close friend when I was in a pinch. I needed some quick advice before going into a UCCJEA conference. My ex was fighting dirty and attempting to manipulate the court. Sean was honest about the potential outcome, …
★★★★★
“Sean does amazing work in helping you stay grounded and can help you see both sides of your situation. Taking that approach helps you accept the true nature of the situation you are in. He has both parties best interest over all and can keep both of your heads out of the weeds.”
★★★★★
“Sean was very easy to work with, easy to get a hold of. Even responds via text message and worked well with my complicated case. I felt that based on talking to lawyers, Sean helped resolve my case fast and efficiently. I will highly recommend using him to everyone! Passionate and knowledge at what he does!”
Office Hours
Daily – 9:30 am to 6:30 pm
Saturday – 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
