How Parenting Coordination Works in Maryland

Parenting coordination is an increasingly popular tool in Maryland. Families who experience conflict after a divorce is completed often benefit when the court appoints a parenting coordinator to help reduce the conflict and make decisions. This is a court-authorized process that helps parents implement their existing parenting orders, rather than relitigating or modifying orders in court.

At RPM Law, our Maryland family law attorneys help you understand parenting coordination and how it may affect your custody case.   

What Is Parenting Coordination in Maryland?

Parenting coordination is a child‑focused dispute‑resolution process. A Parenting Coordinator is a trained professional who works with high‑conflict parents to:

• Improve communication
• Reduce repeated disputes
• Clarify expectations under the parenting plan
• Resolve day‑to‑day disagreements
• Keep the child out of parental conflict

The goal is to help parents follow the court‑ordered parenting schedule and make decisions without constantly returning to court.

When Maryland Courts Use Parenting Coordination

Parenting coordination is typically ordered in cases involving high conflict, such as:

• Frequent disagreements about exchanges, schedules, or activities
• Difficulty communicating without hostility
• Repeated court filings over minor issues
• Concerns about a parent’s ability to follow the parenting plan
• Situations where the child is exposed to ongoing parental conflict

What a Parenting Coordinator Can Do

A Maryland Parenting Coordinator has clearly defined responsibilities. Their role includes:

• Monitoring compliance with the parenting plan
• Helping parents interpret unclear or ambiguous provisions
• Coaching parents on communication and conflict‑management skills
• Facilitating problem‑solving around day‑to‑day issues
• Making recommendations to the parents
• Reporting to the court when necessary

In some situations, the court may authorize the PC to make limited decisions when parents cannot agree. These decisions must fall within the scope of the court order and cannot change legal custody or major aspects of the parenting plan.

Common issues a PC may help resolve include:

• Exchange times and locations
• Holiday scheduling disputes
• Participation in extracurricular activities
• Communication methods between parents
• Minor adjustments to accommodate a child’s needs

The Parenting Coordinator’s authority is always defined by the court order. They cannot exceed it.

What a Parenting Coordinator Cannot Do

Parenting coordination is not a substitute for judicial decision‑making. A PC cannot:

• Change legal custody
• Modify child support
• Alter major aspects of the parenting schedule
• Conduct custody evaluations
• Provide therapy to either parent or the child
• Make decisions outside the scope of the court order

If a dispute involves a major legal issue, the PC may help the parents clarify the problem, but the court must make the final decision.

How the Parenting Coordination Process Works

Although each Parenting Coordinator may have their own style, the process generally includes:

1. Initial Intake and Review

The PC reviews the court order, parenting plan, and any relevant background information. Each parent may meet individually with the PC to discuss concerns and goals.

2. Joint Sessions

The PC meets with both parents to address disputes, improve communication, and work through recurring issues.

3. Ongoing Communication

Parents may contact the PC when disagreements arise. The PC helps resolve issues quickly to avoid escalation.

4. Recommendations or Decisions

If parents cannot agree, the PC may issue recommendations or, if authorized, make a limited decision. These are typically documented in writing.

5. Reporting to the Court

If a parent consistently violates the parenting plan or refuses to participate, the PC may file a report with the court.

Benefits of Parenting Coordination

Parents often find that parenting coordination:

• Reduces stress and conflict
• Helps children feel more secure
• Minimizes unnecessary court involvement
• Improves communication between co‑parents
• Provides quick resolution to everyday disputes
• Keeps the focus on the child’s needs

For high‑conflict families, these benefits can significantly improve the co‑parenting relationship.

Speak to a Maryland Child Custody Lawyer About Your Case

Parenting coordination can be a useful tool, but it can also have impacts upon you that you didn’t expect. An attorney can help you navigate child custody issues and protect the rights of your children.

Our team at RPM Law are ready to help with your family law needs. Contact us today for a consultation.