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their children are likely to notice and learn positive communication skills
to use themselves.
Confidential
Parenting coordination sessions are held in private and there are no public
records of decisions reached or directions made. However, written reports
and testimony may be provided to the court under certain circumstances.
Cost-Effective
The costs of a parenting coordinator are typically shared by the parties,
unless there is a court order specifying in a different manner how costs will
be shared between them. This cost sharing of professional services can
result in significant cost savings for the clients.
Because parenting coordination is designed to help by offering guidance,
facilitation and decision making when parents are unable to agree on their
own, parties spend significantly less time in conflict. Less conflict translates
to fewer courtroom disputes and a more affordable dispute resolution
process.
Empowering
With the guidance of a professional in dispute resolution modelling active
listening skills, parties are encouraged to communicate in more effective
ways. This diffuses tensions and misunderstandings that impede negotiations.
Further, in permitting free, clearer expression, this helps parties find
satisfaction in being heard. Communication skills and insight learned
through the process may last well beyond the resolution of a single dispute.
Flexible
The process can be effectively conducted via telephone, e-mail or webbased
teleconferencing. These have proven to be an effective and efficient
alternative to traditional in-person parenting coordination sessions.
The parties often set their own schedule. Parenting coordination also permits
parties to fashion remedies designed to fit their unique circumstances,
concerns, needs and values. This can permit “win/win” solutions while promoting
positive communication and cooperation.
Lower Stress
Conflict can create a huge emotional burden for those in it or surrounded
by it. The prospect of court intensifies this stress. Children are likely
impacted by the tension they sense, even if their parents are not arguing in
front of them. By educating parents on ways to resolve conflict, a parenting
coordinator can help minimize conflict and lessen stress tensions within
the new family units.