Overview of Parenting Coordination
Parenting coordination is a structured, child centered process used in high conflict Family Court matters to help parents implement an existing parenting plan and resolve day to day parenting disputes.
Under New Jersey Court Rule 5:8D, a Parenting Coordinator is appointed to assist parents with timely resolution of parenting issues that continue to arise after separation or divorce.
Practically, the role exists because many families do not need a new custody evaluation, they need a reliable method for addressing recurring disagreements without repeated motion practice.
Parenting coordination provides a structured pathway to clarify the issue, gather needed information from both parents, and move toward a workable resolution within the scope of the existing court order.
Helping parents reach child-centered decisions while removing children from protracted conflict
When Parenting Coordination Can Begin
I accept Parenting Coordinator matters only after I receive an Order Appointing me as Parenting Coordinator. The Order defines the scope of the role, the term of the appointment, and the authority of the Parenting Coordinator within that case. The Parenting Coordinator role is designed to work within the framework of existing orders and parenting plans, not to re litigate the underlying custody dispute.
My Role as Parenting Coordinator
As Parenting Coordinator, my role is to help parents address parenting disputes in a structured, child centered way and to support implementation of the current parenting plan. I focus on making the disagreement clear, keeping the discussion confined to what is within scope, and helping parents reach resolution efficiently.
When parents are able to reach agreement, the outcome is documented in writing. When parents are not able to reach agreement after structured efforts, I provide written recommendations and, when authorized by the Order of Appointment, written decisions within the permitted scope. Parenting coordination is not therapy and does not involve treating mental health concerns. It is a court appointed dispute resolution role focused on parenting implementation.
New Jersey Judiciary Approval and Domestic Violence Designation
I am approved by the New Jersey Judiciary as a Parenting Coordinator. I also hold the Judiciary’s Domestic Violence designation, meaning I have completed additional training to serve in Parenting Coordinator matters that involve domestic violence histories and restraining orders, when appointment is appropriate and permitted by the court.
Communication and Decision Making
Communication structure is central to parenting coordination, particularly in high conflict matters. In cases without a restraining order, communication is handled in a transparent, organized manner. Parents are asked to submit issues in writing, and any questions I need answered to clarify the request are directed to both parents. Recommendations and decisions are provided in writing to both parents so there is a clear record of what was requested, what information was considered, and what the outcome is.
In cases involving a TRO or FRO, I do not communicate with parents jointly. Communication is structured to comply with the restraining order. In those matters, I use a separate communication protocol so that each parent can participate appropriately while maintaining role clarity and ensuring the process remains organized and even handed.
Common Parenting Coordination Issues
Parenting coordination is most helpful for recurring day to day disputes that arise while parents are trying to follow an existing parenting plan. Common issues include disagreements about schedule adjustments and make up time, exchange logistics, participation in activities, travel details, communication problems, and differences in interpretation of parenting plan terms that require practical clarification.
Parenting coordination does not change custody or parenting time in the way a court order does, and it does not address financial disputes. The role is to help parents implement the existing plan and resolve the issues that repeatedly interfere with day to day parenting.
Insurance and Fee Structure
Parenting coordination is not covered by health insurance. All Parenting Coordinator matters are provided on a private pay basis and are handled under a retainer model. An initial retainer is required before services begin, and all time spent on the matter is billed against that retainer. As the retainer is spent down, additional replenishments will be requested to continue services. For current rates and retainer requirements, please contact the practice directly.