Process

How We Make Decisions

At the heart of our approach is a commitment to fairness, transparency, and ensuring parents feel supported throughout the process. We understand that entrusting a Parent Coordinator to assist with parenting decisions can feel daunting, which is why we prioritize building trust and clarity from the very beginning.

Complimentary Consultation
To help parents feel confident and comfortable, all of our Parent Coordinators offer an initial complimentary consultation with each parent. This meeting provides an opportunity to answer questions, explain the process, and address any concerns. It also allows parents to get to know the Parent Coordinator and feel assured that their input will be heard and respected.

Decision-Making Based on Need
Parent Coordinators only make decisions when specifically asked to do so by one or both parents. The goal is not to impose control but to provide guidance and resolution when disputes arise. The frequency of utilizing a Parent Coordinator depends entirely on the parents’ needs—some families may require ongoing assistance, while others may only seek support for isolated issues.

Our General Process
While each Parent Coordinator brings their own unique approach, the process typically follows these steps:

1.      Understanding the Issue
The Parent Coordinator gathers information from both parents to fully understand the nature of the disagreement. This may include written submissions, email exchanges, or discussions during a scheduled meeting.  The Parent Coordinator will also consult the Parent Coordinator Agreement in place with the parents to confirm he or she has the authority to issue a decision regarding the nature of the dispute. 

2.      Encouraging Collaboration
Whenever possible, the Parent Coordinator works with parents to facilitate a resolution through discussion and compromise. This step ensures both parties feel heard and invested in the outcome.

3.      Providing Guidance
If collaboration is not enough to resolve the dispute, the Parent Coordinator may provide recommendations or guidance based on their expertise in law, mental health, or family dynamics.

4.      Making a Decision
When a resolution cannot be reached, and the parents request it, the Parent Coordinator steps in to make a clear, reasoned decision. These decisions are carefully considered, prioritizing the child’s best interests while taking into account each parent’s perspective.

5.      Documenting the Outcome
Any decision or agreement reached is documented and shared with both parents to ensure clarity and consistency moving forward.

Our goal is to minimize conflict and foster constructive communication, providing a path forward that supports the well-being of your child and your family. We are here to guide you through the challenges of co-parenting with professionalism, empathy, and a focus on achieving practical solutions.