When co-parenting disputes arise in Texas custody cases, the court may appoint a parenting coordinator to help parents navigate conflicts and comply with court orders. The Texas Family Code outlines the role, qualifications, and limitations of parenting coordinators to ensure they effectively support families while remaining neutral. Understanding how a parenting coordinator can assist in a custody battle may help parents resolve disputes and create a healthier environment for their child.
When Might a Court Appoint a Parenting Coordinator?
A Texas court may appoint a parenting coordinator when:
- Parents exhibit high-conflict behavior that negatively impacts the child.
- Frequent disputes over custody or visitation require ongoing intervention.
- Co-parenting struggles make it difficult to implement custody arrangements effectively.
- Mediation efforts have failed, and continued legal battles seem likely.
If you believe your custody case involves one or more of the above issues, you may want to read on to learn what a parenting coordinator is and how to get one appointed on your case.
What is a Parenting Coordinator?
Firstly, a parenting coordinator is a neutral third party appointed by the court to assist parents in managing conflicts related to child custody and visitation. Their primary role according to the Texas Family Code involves:
(1) identifying disputed issues;
(2) reducing misunderstandings;
(3) clarifying priorities;
(4) exploring possibilities for problem solving;
(5) developing methods of collaboration in parenting;
(6) understanding parenting plans and reaching agreements about parenting issues to be included in a parenting plan;
(7) complying with the court's order regarding conservatorship or possession of and access to the child;
(8) implementing parenting plans;
(9) obtaining training regarding problem solving, conflict management, and parenting skills; and
(10) settling disputes regarding parenting issues and reaching a proposed joint resolution or statement of intent regarding those disputes.
It is important to note that unlike judges, parenting coordinators do not make binding decisions but instead work collaboratively with both parents to implement custody arrangements more effectively.
Appointments of a Parenting Coordinator
The Texas Family Code, specifically Sections 153.601 through 153.608, provides the legal framework for the appointment and role of parenting coordinators:
- Appointment: The court may appoint a parenting coordinator on its own motion or at the request of either parent if it finds that the case involves high levels of conflict and that coordination would benefit the child.
- Qualifications: Parenting coordinators must meet certain professional criteria, including relevant training and experience in family dynamics, conflict resolution, and Texas family law.
- Confidentiality: Communications with a parenting coordinator are generally confidential and cannot be used as evidence in court unless there is a risk of harm to the child or a parent.
- Limitations: A parenting coordinator cannot modify court orders but can help parents understand and comply with them more effectively.
Parenting coordinators serve as valuable resources in Texas custody cases, helping parents navigate disputes while keeping the child’s best interests at the forefront. By improving communication, reducing conflict, and promoting compliance with court orders, they can make co-parenting more manageable. Understanding the Texas Family Code’s provisions on parenting coordinators can help parents know their rights and options when facing a custody dispute.
If you are involved in a custody battle and believe a parenting coordinator may benefit your case, consult with an attorney experienced with this process at Hunt Law Firm, PLLC to explore this option further.