fb_px

Why Judges Should Consider Ordering a Parent Coordinator in Custody Disputes

Studies have shown that working with a parent coordinator can be highly effective in resolving conflicts and improving communication between parents.
May 1, 2023
While handling custody cases and practicing as a Parent Coordinator, I noticed that in some counties across North Carolina certain judges hesitate to order a parent coordinator in custody disputes. While this may be due to a variety of reasons, I believe that there are several compelling arguments for why judges should consider ordering a parent coordinator in almost all high conflict custody cases.

One of the main reasons why judges may be hesitant to order a parent coordinator is the concern about losing their authority over the case. Some judges may feel that appointing a parent coordinator takes away their ability to make decisions and control the outcome of the case. However, I believe that working with a parent coordinator can actually help judges by providing them with a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations and find common ground between parents. This can help reduce the burden on the court system and ultimately lead to a more efficient and effective resolution of the case.

Another reason why judges may be hesitant to order a parent coordinator is the concern about cost. It’s true that working with a parent coordinator can be expensive, and some parents may not be able to afford it. However, in some cases, the cost of not resolving the dispute can be much greater in terms of legal fees, lost time, and emotional stress. Additionally, many parent coordinators offer sliding scale fees or payment plans to make their services more accessible to families in need.

Another argument against ordering a parent coordinator is the concern about the effectiveness of the process. Some judges may feel that working with a parent coordinator won’t be effective in resolving the issues at hand. However, studies have shown that working with a parent coordinator can be highly effective in resolving conflicts and improving communication between parents. By providing a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations and identify solutions, parent coordinators can help parents find common ground and create a parenting plan that is in the best interests of their child.

Finally, some judges may have concerns about the qualifications and impartiality of the parent coordinator. While it’s true that not all parent coordinators are created equal, there are many highly qualified and experienced professionals who are dedicated to remaining impartial and upholding ethical standards. Judges can do their due diligence by researching potential parent coordinators, checking their credentials, and seeking recommendations from trusted sources.

In conclusion, while some judges may be hesitant to order a parent coordinator in custody disputes, I believe that there are several compelling arguments for why they should consider it in certain cases. By providing a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations, reducing the burden on the court system, improving communication between parents, and creating a parenting plan that is in the best interests of the child, parent coordinators can be an essential tool in resolving custody disputes in a fair and impartial manner.

Abandonment Addiction Adjusting Child Support Adjusting Custody Schedules alientation Alimony Annesophia Richards Attorney Allie Moore Mediation auto appraisal Avoid Court Costs Back to School Benefits of Mediation Books Boundaries Breastfeeding business tax returns can i move out of North Carolina with my child Cape Fear Family Law Mediation Certified Mediators Child Custody Child Custody Mediation Children Child Support child support modification Child Support Strategies Clear Communication Communication Community Assistance Conservatorship Conservatyorship Controlled Costs Cost-Effective Mediation Solutions Courtroom Absenteeism Custodial Exchange Custody discovery process Divorce Divorce Arrangements Divorce Mediation Domestic Violence Equitable Distribution family businesses Family Dispute Mediation Family Law Family Law Litigation Family Law Mediation Faster Resolution Felony Stalking Finance Flexible Costs Foreclosures Government Assistance Grandparent Visitation harassment How Mediation Works in Family Law inappropriate comments litigation long-arm statute Long-Term Savings lower child support payments Lower Legal Fees Low Income Mothers Marital Property Mediation Follow-Up Mediation in Family Law Mediation Process Explained Mediation vs Litigation Medical Mental Health Minimized Conflict Missed Doctors Appointments NC Relocation Case North Carolina Other Resources Parent Coordinator Parenting personal jurisdiction Post - Divorce Arrangements Post-separation Debts Private Investigators Property Distribution protective order rampant drug use Reducing Stress for Co-Parents Reestablishing Routines Relocation Custody Relocation and Resettlement Separation Separation Agreement skipping court dates Spiritual Assistance Starting Mediation Process Step Children Supervised Visitation Support Groups Unsolicited Phone Calls valuing cars Visitation waving attorney fee what happens if my ex moves without permission

Allie Moore
For clients looking for a peaceful resolution, Allie Moore is their go-to. Serving New Hanover, Brunswick, and Columbus counties, Allie combines her mediation skills with a genuine empathy that clients instantly feel. She’s skilled in handling divorce, custody, and support cases but can find common ground that truly sets her apart. Allie knows that every family situation is unique, and her dedication to finding fair, positive solutions leaves a lasting impact on her clients, helping them achieve a sense of closure and peace.

Latest Blog Posts

Two States, Three Kids & One Moving Truck—Relocation Custody in Real Time

Follow family‑law litigator Matt Geiger as he unpacks a true‑to‑life NC relocation case—three kids, two dads, and one stressed‑out mom—while teaching the legal playbook that keeps families whole.

Relocation and Resettlement in North Carolina Family Law

“Can I move with the kids?”—The question that keeps parents (and judges) up at night

Back-to-School Foundations

Custody and Child Support Strategies for a Smooth Start

Navigating Child Custody in LGBTQIA+ Divorce

Legal Realities, Diverse Beliefs & Practical Solutions

Juneteenth on the Range

How One Accidental Museum Stop Reminded Me Why Black History Matters to Every Family

Navigating Digital Boundaries for LGBTQIA+ Families During Divorce and Custody

Pride Month is a celebration of identity, love, and visibility—but it’s also a time to reflect on the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals and families face, particularly in times of transition like divorce and custody disputes.

Our Core Values

Knowledgeable

Knowledgeable

We know what to do and we actively share our knowledge.

Integrity

Integrity

Honesty in action and a good moral compass.

Empathetic

Empathetic

Active understanding without judgment.

Accountable

Accountable

To yourself, your clients, your colleagues and the court.