The Role of a Parenting Coordinator in Child Custody Matters
You have enduring ongoing legal issues through the courts involving your children, and it is apparent that even with court involvement there is still consistent disagreement and fighting between you and your child’s other parent – what is a person to do? Is there anyone other than an attorney or judge that can assist? This could be a case for a Parenting Coordinator.
Chapter 50, Article 5 of the North Carolina General Statutes provides a neutral third party called a Parenting Coordinator. The Parenting Coordinator has the ability to step in and assist on “high-conflict” custody cases during the custody determination phase or after a custody determination has been made. To be considered a “high-conflict” case, the Court must find that there is an ongoing pattern of things such as: excessive litigation, verbal abuse, physical aggression or threats of physical aggression, difficulty communicating about parenting details, difficulty cooperating in the care of the minor child, or other conditions that, in the discretion of the Court, warrant the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator.
A Parenting Coordinator has unique training to help parties in high-conflict custody matters. This help not only involves investigating and discussing different issues pertaining to a child’s care, but also involves being a tie-breaker, as the Parenting Coordinator is statutorily empowered to make a final decision that affects a child’s welfare when the parties cannot agree. The Parenting Coordinator is chosen from a list maintained by the District Court or requested by legal counsel.
The parenting coordinator can be appointed in a case if: (1) all parties consent (2) the Court grants the motion by one party requesting an appointment or (3) the Court decides on its own to appoint a parenting coordinator.
If the parties do not agree to the appointment of a parenting coordinator, then the Court must make the following specific findings: (1) the case is a high-conflict case (2) the appointment is in the best interest of the minor child and (3) that the parties are able to pay for the cost of the parenting coordinator.
The Order appointing a parenting coordinator will specify the terms of the appointment and the issues the coordinator is directed to assist the parties in resolving and deciding. Any decision made by the parenting coordinator will be in writing, provided to both parties and their attorneys, and will be enforceable as an Order of the Court. Any decisions by a parenting coordinator remain binding even after the appointment concludes, unless modified by the parenting coordinator, a new parenting coordinator, or the Court.
Finding a way to co-parent during and after custody litigation sometimes requires a referee (other than a Judge) for decisions affecting the child’s welfare – for many parents and children, a Parent Coordinator is just that.
If you or someone you know needs a Referee in their child custody matter, our team at Modern Legal is here to help.
Please note: these educational materials are based on North Carolina law where my legal practice is based. While the insights may have wide applicability, readers should consult with an attorney regarding the specific laws in their state or country.
Written by: Tiffany A. Byrd
Family is at the heart of everything I do, both personally and professionally. As a Family Law Attorney, I combine my passion for helping others with my unique journey—from growing up as the eldest child in a single-parent household to becoming the first attorney in my family. My experiences shaped my dedication to advocating for families in their most critical moments. Whether you’re building, protecting, or securing your family’s future, I’m here to help you find meaningful resolutions tailored to your needs.
