Talk about money before the conflict starts
Most parenting coordination guides skip straight to conflict tactics. Part 7 goes first to money: what fees cover, how retainers work, and what happens when costs need to shift.
Please note
This explanation reflects the interpretation of the writer only and is not legal advice. Consult a lawyer for an explanation of your own contract. Interpretations may vary, and the BC Court is the ultimate decider of what the terms of a contract mean. This information is offered for general guidance only. If you disagree with anything here, feedback is welcome.
2 ways fees stay fair for both parents
The retainer funds the work upfront, and reapportionment can shift costs when one parent blocks progress. Both parents see the same fee structure.
Read the summary of this video
Part 6: Understanding Fees, Retainers, and Funding the Process Why do Parenting Coordinators require a retainer? Parenting Coordination is an ongoing process rather than a one-time service. A retainer ensures that resources are available when parenting issues arise and allows the process to continue without delays caused by funding problems. Is the retainer just a deposit? Yes. The retainer is a pool of funds from which Parenting Coordination fees are paid as work is completed. The balance is maintained throughout the appointment so services remain available when needed. What am I paying for? Many parents think only about meetings, but much of the work occurs outside meetings. Parenting Coordinators may review communications and documents, consult with professionals, prepare recommendations, write determinations, manage files, and address urgent issues between appointments. Why do I have to replenish the retainer? As services are provided, the retainer balance decreases. Replenishment requirements help ensure that funds remain available to address future disputes and parenting issues as they arise. What happens if a parent ignores a replenishment request? The Participation Agreement allows a Parenting Coordinator to suspend services if required financial arrangements are not maintained. Like any professional service, Parenting Coordination requires adequate funding to continue. Can one parent stop the process by refusing to pay? Not necessarily. The Agreement specifically contemplates situations where one parent fails to contribute. Certain provisions are designed to reduce the ability of one parent to frustrate the process simply through non-payment. Why might one parent end up paying more than the other? The Agreement may allow fee reallocation in appropriate circumstances. This is intended to allocate costs fairly where one parent's conduct has created substantially more work or expense than the other's. Is fee reallocation a punishment? No. Fee reallocation is intended to address fairness, not punishment. The focus is on who generated the work and resulting costs, not on assigning blame. Why does the Agreement refer to interest on overdue accounts? Interest provisions encourage timely payment and address situations where accounts remain unpaid for extended periods. What happens if the Parenting Coordinator becomes involved in court proceedings? If a Parenting Coordinator is required to review records, attend court, respond to subpoenas, consult legal counsel, or participate in litigation, additional fees and expenses may apply because significant professional time may be required. What's the key takeaway? The financial provisions are about more than billing. They are designed to ensure that Parenting Coordination remains properly funded and available when families need assistance. Retainers, replenishment requirements, and fee allocation provisions are all intended to support a functional and sustainable dispute-resolution process.
Ask about costs before you commit
Browse common questions or reach out if you need more detail.