There are issues that couples argue over during a divorce proceeding are limitless. Perhaps, among the issues that are disputed, none prove to be more contentious than child custody and child visitation. As part of the divorce decree, the court will approve a parenting plan which will outline the particulars of the child’s rearing such as:
- Where the child will live
- What weeks/days the child will spend with the non-custodial parent
- Which parent has final say in health care, schooling and extracurricular activities
It is often the case that couples find themselves facing divorce because an inability to resolve conflicts between themselves. In the case where a divorcing couple is also facing custody and visitation issues the potential for conflict is even greater. In fact, it is quite understandable that each parent would want their child in their home as much as possible. However, an agreement will need to be reached or the court will need to hold a hearing to resolve the custody and visitation issues prior to the case concluding.
A 2021 Forbes article by Patricia Fersch looked at the impact of parent coordinators on the divorce process. Parenting coordinators are specially trained professionals that focus on helping parents manage their parenting plan, improve communication, and resolve disputes. Their roles can vary based on the family need. In some instances, parenting coordinators, can be mental health or legal professionals. A review of the use of parenting coordinators shows it to be particularly helpful for managing post litigation and contempt motions. As the parties go about their daily lives under the court order, instances such as missed parenting calls and missed scheduled visitation appointments could force the court to entertain a litany of contempt motions and disputes between the parties. A successful parenting coordinator relationship with the parties could help resolve these conflicts and save valuable resources and court time. With exception to instances involving domestic violence, parenting coordinators are recommended for willing couples facing an inability to resolve conflicts in the parenting plan.
The Faucette Law Firm, LLC represents clients in contested and uncontested divorce cases, child custody, child visitation, alimony, modifications and legitimations. We serve Atlanta, Fulton, Douglas, DeKalb, Clayton, Fayette, Gwinnett, Henry, Carrollton, Paulding, Cobb and Coweta. If you have any questions on whether a parenting coordinator or parenting app would be helpful in your case, contact our law firm today.