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.