The Role Of Parenting Coordinators In Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Cases
As a divorced or single parent in Fort Lauderdale, communicating with an ex and reaching agreements about child custody can create ongoing stress. In high-conflict cases, the Broward County Court may appoint a parenting coordinator to keep the focus on what matters most: the child’s best interests.
Our Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney explains how parenting coordinators work, ways they can help, and how to decide whether it’s the right move in your situation.
The Role of Parenting Coordinators in Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Cases
Florida parenting plans are generally encouraged in cases of divorced or single parents. Many assume that once the Broward County court approves their parenting plan and puts a child custody order in place, it will stop conflicts and make the situation easier to deal with.
Unfortunately, a court order won’t solve communication problems that led to conflict in the first place. That’s where parenting coordinators come in. Under the Florida Statutes, a judge can appoint a parenting coordinator in high-conflict cases to help both parents follow their custody agreement and reduce the need to return to court.
Parenting coordinators don’t make major legal decisions but step in when cooperation breaks down over day-to-day issues. In Fort Lauderdale child custody cases, common problems parenting coordinators address include:
- Frequent arguments over parenting time or pickup/drop-off logistics;
- One parent refusing to share information about the child’s schooling or health care;
- Repeated failure to stick to the parenting plan;
- Disagreements about how to handle holidays or special events;
- Emotional manipulation or attempts to alienate the child from the other parent.
What To Know Before You Agree to Parenting Coordination In Your Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Case
When parents hear a third party might get involved in their parenting decisions, it’s normal to feel unsure, or even resistant. Will this person take sides? What authority will they have? Can they actually help?
Parenting coordination isn’t for everyone, but in the right situation, it can reduce stress, aid communication, and prevent small issues from spiraling into major disputes. If you are considering it as an option in your Fort Lauderdale child custody case, keep the following in mind:
- Talk to your attorney about how the coordinator is selected and their powers.
- Ask how often you’ll meet or communicate with the coordinator, and what their fees look like.
- Make sure the parenting plan is detailed and clear, as broad or vague orders cause more problems later.
- Keep your own records of communication and disputes, especially if the other parent isn’t cooperating.
- Don’t agree to coordination if there’s a history of domestic violence or coercive control.
To Get The Legal Support You Need, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Attorney
If you’re struggling with a high-conflict parenting situation and have concerns about bringing in a parenting coordinator, The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio is here to help. We protect your rights while providing trusted legal support throughout the process. Reach out today to request a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney.
Sources:
flcourts.gov/content/download/686031/file_pdf/995a.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.125.html
