A Parenting Consultant, or PC, is a neutral professional who helps parents resolve ongoing disagreements about custody and parenting time. A PC is appointed by a stipulated court order, which means both parents must agree to the appointment. The court cannot appoint a PC unless both parties consent.
After a PC is appointed, the PC may make binding decisions about parenting-related issues that fall within the scope of the court order. That scope may be broad or limited, depending on what the parents agreed to, and it should be clearly stated in the stipulated order.
How the Parenting Consultant process works
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Initial attempt to resolve the issue: Before involving the PC, parents are expected to try to resolve the disagreement directly.
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Written submission: If the issue is not resolved, each parent submits their concerns to the PC in writing.
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Joint meeting: The PC typically holds a joint session to help the parents discuss the issue and explore possible solutions.
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Decision-making: If the parents cannot reach an agreement, the PC reviews the information from both parents, along with any relevant outside information, and makes a binding written decision. That decision has the same force and effect as a court order.
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Challenging a decision: PC decisions may be challenged in court, but only in the manner and timeframe stated in the order.
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Confidentiality: The PC process is not confidential. Communications may be shared with the court and both parents.
Angela requires all potential PC clients to schedule an initial 30-minute introductory meeting before she determines whether she can accept the matter. To schedule a session, call 507-961-3308.
Interested in Parenting Consultant services? Call 507-961-3308 to schedule an introductory meeting.
