Parenting Coordinator Decision Maker in Colorado Springs

Parents always want what is best for their children. Sadly, both parents may not agree on what that entails. This is especially true when the parents no longer reside together in the same home. When parents cannot agree on a beneficial solution, the family may require the services of a Parenting Coordinator Decision Maker (PCDM).

The family law attorneys at Knies, Helland & McPherson Law understand that parenting issues are very important and potentially damaging to all parties involved. For this reason, our team will do everything we can to help the parents of a child come to an amicable agreement.

To speak with our lawyers, call us today at (719) 626-8530.

What Is a Parenting Coordinator Decision Maker?

A Parenting Coordinator Decision Maker (PCDM) is a neutral third party who is brought into domestic situations when parents cannot agree on crucial decisions concerning their children. The Colorado judicial system created this position to ensure the best interests of children are always being observed.

A PCDM plays two roles in the Colorado legal system. A Parenting Coordinator works much like a mediator or referee and helps both parties reach an agreeable decision on all parenting issues that are disputed. A Parenting Coordinator can only listen, negotiate, and make suggestions to both parties.

A Decision Maker has the authority to make decisions that will benefit the child or children and the parents must comply. In most cases, a Decision Maker is appointed by the Court when both parties fail to come to a reasonable agreement on issues concerning their child or children and mediation has failed; however, the consent of both parents is required to appoint a Decision Maker. The Court generally gives the Decision Maker authority to make final decisions that are legally binding for a minimum of two years.

How Can a PCDM Help Me?

At Knies, Helland & McPherson Law, our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients work through difficult family law issues. Each attorney knows that every case is different, and each situation must be handled with compassion and understanding. If our attorneys believe that a PCDM would be beneficial to your case, we will make this recommendation to the client. When this happens, the first thing our clients want to know is how can a PCDM help?

Some of the ways that a PCDM can help with these difficult issues include:

• A professional and neutral opinion of the situation. Many times, one or both parties feel that the negotiations are biased toward the other person. Having a neutral party involved allows both parties to feel as if the negotiations are fair.
• A person who can set guidelines for the negotiations will allow both parties to speak up without feeling inhibited by the other party.
• A person who can bring resources to the negotiation table shows both parties how to effectively communicate with each other. These resources may also be given to each party to seek further education on the subject on their own.
• A person who can help identify the root causes of the conflict and allow each person to address these issues accordingly so negotiations can continue.
• A person who can provide information on parenting strategies that will minimize conflict between both parties and allow the child to receive the most benefits from the parenting plan.

The services provided by the PCDM complement and strengthen the services provided by your personal attorney. Our attorneys understand that sometimes it takes a neutral party to help a domestic situation progress to the next level. We firmly believe that by providing access to this type of service we are providing the legal representation that our clients deserve.

What Questions Should I Ask a PCDM?

At Knies, Helland & McPherson Law, our attorneys may give you suggestions on the types of questions you should ask the PCDM during your session. These questions will be based on your specific needs and desired outcome from the negotiations. However, you are encouraged to ask as many questions as you need to ensure that you understand what is taking place during the negotiation session.

Some of the questions you may find helpful include:

1. Who is responsible for the decisions concerning schooling, after school activities and sports, and religious upbringing of the child?
2. Do I need approval from the other parent before providing medical care?
3. Who is responsible for medical care costs and services?
4. Can I travel out of the area with our child?
5. Are there restrictions to the living arrangements, such as living within a certain area or school district?
6. What is the visitation schedule?
7. What is the support amount and are there any special requirements?
8. Can I request that the child be kept away from certain individuals or family members?

Offering Knowledgeable Legal Advice & Guidance

At Knies, Helland & McPherson Law, our attorneys understand the difficulty some parents have reaching crucial agreements concerning their children. We offer each client sound counsel regarding these issues. We can help you find a PCDM who can sort out your situation.

Contact our firm online or call us at (719) 626-8530 to get started today!