Frequently asked questions

Parenting Coordination is a child‑focused dispute resolution process for separated or divorced parents who experience ongoing conflict in implementing their parenting plan. Instead of returning to court for day‑to‑day parenting disputes, parents work with a neutral Parenting Coordinator (PC) who helps resolve issues in a timely, structured, and cost‑effective way. The goal is to reduce conflict and protect children from being exposed to ongoing parental disputes. There are numerous articles in our Resource Library with further explanations about the role, parallel parenting and keeping children from adult conflict.

Parenting Coordination is appropriate for parents who continue to experience conflict after separation and already have a parenting agreement or court order in place. A PC cannot replace the court but can assist with implementing and clarifying existing arrangements. An agreement or court order appointing the PC and defining their authority is required. Take a look at our For the Judge webpage for model orders and submissions.

A Parenting Coordinator helps parents resolve parenting disputes through education, coaching, mediation, and—if authorized—binding determinations. The PC assists with communication, decision‑making, and compliance with existing orders and agreements, with a focus on the child’s best interests and minimizing future conflict.

Cori L. McGuire has been a family law lawyer since 1998 and a Parenting Coordinator since 2008. She receives ongoing specialized training in family law and high‑conflict dispute resolution. She is accredited by the Law Society of British Columbia as a Parenting Coordinator and is a member and director of the BC Parenting Coordinators Roster Society.

Cori L. McGuire Law Corporation is based in Kelowna, British Columbia. Parenting Coordination services are provided throughout BC, both virtually and in person where appropriate. If British Columbia has jurisdiction, services may be provided to families located outside the province or country.

Parenting Coordination is designed to address non‑compliance early and constructively. The PC will typically begin with education, clarification, and mediation. If non‑compliance continues, process measures may be used, including reapportionment of PC fees where authorized. If all PC interventions are exhausted, the matter may need to return to court.

Respectful communication is a core requirement of the Parenting Coordination process. At the outset, a communication agreement sets clear expectations. The PC provides coaching and guidance, and warnings are issued if needed. Persistent disrespectful communication may result in fee reapportionment or further intervention, and in some cases a determination or recommendation to return to court.

Payment of PC fees is an essential term. If fees are not paid, the process cannot continue. If the retainer  is exhausted, one parent may temporarily fund completion of the determination, with repayment addressed in the decision.

The PC will first attempt to mediate significant disagreements where jurisdiction exists. If mediation is unsuccessful and the PC is authorized, a determination may be made in the child’s best interests. Determinations may be filed with the court and are enforceable as court orders. Court review remains available. 

The Parenting Coordination process is designed to encourage parents to resolve issues directly whenever possible. Clear communication rules, written guidance, and early recommendations are used to reduce unnecessary involvement. Determinations are only made when required, and written decisions are kept proportionate to the issue to manage costs. This process provides immediate attention to resolution without delay and it allows parents to spend time on the matters that they believe are important.

Safety is paramount. Screening for family violence occurs throughout the process. Where concerns exist, the PC adapts the process using measures such as separate sessions (shuttle mediation), enhanced communication controls, and referrals to specialized supports. The process is adjusted as needed to ensure safety.

Children are generally not interviewed directly by the Parenting Coordinator. Their views are usually conveyed through independent “Hear the Child” reports, therapists, or other professionals. In limited circumstances, and with clear role boundaries and confidentiality limits, the PC may meet with a child where it is appropriate and in the child’s best interests.

Concerns should first be raised directly with the Parenting Coordinator using the internal process outlined in the participation agreement. If unresolved, parents may access the BC Parenting Coordinators Roster Society’s consensual dispute resolution process or apply to court for directions or termination of the appointment. Lawyers are regulated by the Law Society of British Columbia, which also accepts written complaints.

A Parenting Coordinator’s authority is limited to what is set out in the appointing agreement or court order. Within that scope, a PC may make decisions about day‑to‑day parenting issues such as:

• Parenting schedules and exchanges

• Holidays and vacations

• Extracurricular activities and routines

• Communication between parents

• Routine health and education matters

• Clarification of special expenses (if authorized)

A Parenting Coordinator is not a judge and has no authority to make fundamental changes to a child’s legal or parenting arrangements. Under the Family Law Act Regulation, a PC must not make determinations about:

• Changes to guardianship

• Changes to the allocation of parental responsibilities

• Granting parenting time or contact to someone who does not already have it

• Substantial changes to parenting time or contact

• The relocation of a child

These issues can only be decided by the court or by agreement between the parents.

Parenting Coordination is most effective for families with ongoing conflict who want a structured, child‑focused alternative to repeated court applications. It is typically a longer‑term process that supports parents in developing the skills needed to reduce conflict and focus on their children’s well‑being.