Using a parenting coordinator - worth it?

Jan 9·1 min read

Our custody agreement has a clause for using a parenting coordinator if we can't agree on stuff. We're currently fighting about whether my ex can move 45 minutes away with the kids next year and I'm wondering if it's worth the $$$ to have someone mediate or if we should just go to court. Anyone been through this? What's the process like?

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Comments(4)

TTom M.New DadJan 11

Did you shop around for coordinators? We found out the first one we talked to was basically just a mediator, but the second one actually had authority to make decisions when we couldn't agree. Made a huge difference knowing someone could actually break the tie.

NNathanNew DadJan 11

One thing I wish someone told me is that the parenting coordinator can't force you to do anything unless your agreement specifically says so. Read that part of your custody agreement super carefully first.

MMark A.RegularJan 11

We used one after our split and honestly it saved us thousands in legal fees. Yeah it costs money upfront but when you're arguing about whether summer camp is educational or not, having a neutral third party makes decisions way faster than going back to lawyers.

TTravis N.RegularJan 12

Depends on how bad things are between you two honestly. If you can still have conversations without it becoming a fight, probably not needed yet. But if every little thing turns into a negotiation, pull the trigger on it.