Accountability measures for parenting coordinators
This breakdown of Part 8 of the roster contract maps out the specific accountability measures that keep parenting coordinators transparent and trusted in BC.
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.
Know your options for raising a concern
Review how process concerns and bias complaints are handled. Understand Roster Consensual Dispute Resolution, regulatory body complaints, and court oversight to feel confident in the process.
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Understanding Accountability in Parenting Coordination Can I fire my Parenting Coordinator if I don't like a decision? Generally, no. Parenting Coordination would be difficult to operate if either parent could end the appointment whenever they disagreed with a recommendation or determination. The Participation Agreement usually requires a structured process to end an appointment, which may involve mutual agreement, court involvement, arbitration, or another legally appropriate mechanism. What if I think the Parenting Coordinator is biased? It is important to distinguish between disagreement and bias. A Parenting Coordinator may reject a proposal, disagree with a parent's position, or make a determination that one parent dislikes without acting improperly. An unfavourable outcome is not, by itself, evidence of bias. What can I do if I think the Parenting Coordinator got something wrong? The appropriate response depends on the concern. If the issue relates to a determination, review through the court may be available. If the concern relates to professional conduct, ethics, competence, or compliance with professional obligations, other complaint processes may be more appropriate. Is there a complaint process? Yes. Parents may first raise concerns directly with the Parenting Coordinator. The BC Parenting Coordinators Roster Society also offers a Consensual Dispute Resolution process, which is a free mediation service conducted by experienced Parenting Coordinators. In some situations, concerns may also be addressed through a professional regulatory body if the Parenting Coordinator belongs to one. What is the difference between a review and a complaint? A review focuses on whether a determination should stand. A complaint focuses on the Parenting Coordinator's professional conduct. These are different processes designed to address different concerns. Can a Parenting Coordinator withdraw from a case? Yes. The Participation Agreement recognizes that a Parenting Coordinator may need to withdraw in certain circumstances, such as safety concerns, conflicts of interest, professional obligations, or non-payment issues. Can a Parenting Coordinator respond to a complaint if information is confidential? Yes. The agreement allows a Parenting Coordinator to disclose information reasonably necessary to respond to complaints, regulatory investigations, legal proceedings, or similar matters. Does the agreement protect Parenting Coordinators from accountability? No. The agreement provides certain protections for actions taken in good faith while carrying out Parenting Coordinator duties, but it does not eliminate review rights, complaint processes, professional oversight, or court supervision. What is the biggest misunderstanding about accountability? Many parents assume that an unfavourable outcome must mean the Parenting Coordinator acted improperly. In reality, disagreement with a result and professional misconduct are very different issues that require different remedies. What's the key takeaway? Parenting Coordinators are accountable, but accountability operates through structured review, complaint, and oversight processes. The Participation Agreement is designed to balance professional accountability with the stability and continuity needed for Parenting Coordination to function effectively.
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Clear answers about accountability
quick answers to common concerns, plus what to do if an issue comes up.