What Does a Parenting Coordinator in Illinois Do?

 Posted on August 11, 2025 in Child Custody

In Illinois, when parents are unable to agree on decisions regarding their children, the court may appoint a parenting coordinator to help resolve conflicts. A parenting coordinator is a neutral professional who helps parents navigate difficult issues related to parental responsibilities, also known as custody and visitation, and other parenting decisions. The main goal of a parenting coordinator is to reduce the negative effects of high-conflict situations and prioritize the well-being of the child.

Parenting coordinators can be lawyers, therapists, or other experts in family law who work with families in conflict. They can often stop problems from getting worse and help parents work together better. If you need assistance to work through co-parenting issues, a Lombard, IL parenting coordinator attorney can help.

The Role of a Parenting Coordinator in Illinois Family Court

In family court, parenting coordinators have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Mediating disagreements: When parents cannot agree on decisions about their child, the parenting coordinator helps resolve the issue. The goal is to find solutions that prioritize the child's needs and keep things stable. This approach promotes better co-parenting and reduces conflict.

• Monitoring compliance with the parenting plan: The parenting coordinator ensures that parents are following the court-ordered parenting plan, as outlined in 750 ILCS 5/602.10. If a parent is not complying, the coordinator steps in to suggest adjustments. 

• Reporting to the court: If issues persist that need court attention, the coordinator submits reports to the judge, as stated in 750 ILCS 5/506. These reports assess how well the parents are following the plan and if changes are needed. The goal is to keep the child's well-being at the center of the process.

When Is a Parenting Coordinator Needed in an Illinois Divorce?

A parenting coordinator is usually needed in Illinois divorces when parents constantly argue, making it hard for them to work together to raise their children. In some cases, parents struggle to make decisions about their child's well-being, such as visitation, education, and healthcare. This type of conflict can harm the child and interfere with their stability.

If you are unable to resolve disagreements on your own, a parenting coordinator can be invaluable. The same applies if you are often changing the parenting plan or if your co-parent is trying to turn your child against you. In these situations, a parenting coordinator may be needed to help and protect your child’s emotional health.

Speak With an Experienced Wheaton, IL Parenting Coordinator Attorney Today

If you are facing difficulties with child custody or co-parenting in Illinois, it may be time to consider the assistance of a parenting coordinator. At A. Traub & Associates, our Lombard, IL parental responsibilities attorneys can help you understand how a parenting coordinator may assist in your case. 

At our female-owned and led law firm, we are dedicated to providing excellent representation while promoting diversity in the legal field. Our team, which includes certified mediators and Guardians ad Litem, works to help clients address complex family law matters effectively. We assist divorcing spouses and parents in reaching settlements quickly and efficiently, always prioritizing the best interests of the child. Call us today at 630-426-0196 and schedule your confidential consultation.