What is a Parenting Coordinator in a Divorce?

Co-parenting after divorce isn’t always smooth, especially when communication breaks down or disagreements persist over parenting decisions. In high-conflict cases, the court may appoint a parenting coordinator to help resolve disputes and improve cooperation.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we often work with families navigating complex parenting arrangements. Here’s what you need to know about how parenting coordinators function in Washington State and whether one might be helpful in your case.

What Is a Parenting Coordinator?

A parenting coordinator is a neutral third party, typically a trained professional with a background in family law, mental health, or child development. Their role is to assist parents in implementing their parenting plan, resolving disputes, and promoting the best interests of the child.

Parenting coordinators don’t replace judges or attorneys, but they do act as a bridge between parents to help manage ongoing issues without constant court intervention.

When Are Parenting Coordinators Used?

Parenting coordinators are most often appointed in high-conflict custody cases where:

• Parents frequently disagree on day-to-day decisions
• There’s a history of court involvement for minor parenting issues
• Communication between parents is hostile or ineffective
• One or both parents have concerns about compliance with the parenting plan

The court can appoint a parenting coordinator by agreement of the parties or by court order when it finds the situation justifies their involvement.

What Issues Can a Parenting Coordinator Address?

Parenting coordinators help interpret and apply the parenting plan, and they may assist with disputes involving:

• Holiday or vacation scheduling conflicts
• Exchange times and locations
• Childcare arrangements
• Participation in extracurricular activities
• Educational or medical decisions (when the parenting plan lacks clarity)
• Allegations of non-compliance or miscommunication

They may also recommend strategies to improve co-parenting communication and reduce stress on the children.

What a Parenting Coordinator Can’t Do

Parenting coordinators do not have the authority to:

• Modify the parenting plan or custody arrangement
• Make binding decisions on major legal custody issues (unless both parties have given them that power)
• Offer legal advice or act as an advocate for either parent

Their recommendations are generally non-binding but can be submitted to the court for consideration if a dispute cannot be resolved.

Benefits of a Parenting Coordinator

For many families, a parenting coordinator can:

• Reduce the need for frequent court hearings
• Promote consistency and predictability for the children
• Improve communication between parents
• Address small issues before they become larger legal conflicts

This role can be especially helpful during the first year after divorce, when both parents are adjusting to new routines and responsibilities.

How Long Does a Parenting Coordinator Stay Involved?

The court order appointing the parenting coordinator will specify the length of service—typically six months to two years. Their involvement can be extended if both parties agree or if the court finds continued support is necessary.

Parents may also request to end the arrangement early if they are successfully co-parenting and no longer need ongoing assistance.

Is a Parenting Coordinator Right for Your Case?

Not every case requires a parenting coordinator. If you and your co-parent generally agree on major decisions and can communicate effectively, you may not need one. But if parenting disagreements are frequent and interfere with your child’s stability, it’s worth discussing the option with your attorney.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we help clients evaluate whether parenting coordination is appropriate for their case and advocate for the best tools to support healthy co-parenting. Whether you need help enforcing a parenting plan or creating a more cooperative structure, we’re here to assist. Call today for a free case evaluation.

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