What's really in the BC Parenting Coordination contract?
This final video in the series separates the facts from the fiction about the BC Parenting Coordination Roster Contract, so you can move forward with confidence.
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.
A plain-language read of the roster contract
The contract binds parents to the process, not to the coordinator's opinions. Decisions stay within the Family Law Act's limits, and a parenting plan guides everything. Clarity here prevents surprises later.
Read the summary in your own time
The 10 Biggest Myths About Parenting Coordination Myth #1: "The Parenting Coordinator Works for Me" A Parenting Coordinator does not represent either parent. The Parenting Coordinator is a neutral professional whose role is to assist both parents within the process. Myth #2: "Everything I Tell the Parenting Coordinator Is Confidential" Parenting Coordination is not therapy or solicitor-client communication. Different types of information are treated differently under the Participation Agreement. Myth #3: "The Parenting Coordinator Can Do Whatever They Think Is Best" Parenting Coordinators only have authority that has been delegated through the court order, agreement, and applicable legal framework. Jurisdiction always comes first. Myth #4: "The Parenting Coordinator Is Basically a Judge" Parenting Coordinators may make determinations on certain issues, but most of their work involves implementation, problem-solving, communication, and conflict management. The court remains the ultimate authority. Myth #5: "The Parenting Coordinator Is My Witness" Parenting Coordinators are not appointed to provide evidence in court. Their determinations, recommendations, and reports are intended to stand on their own. Myth #6: "If I Don't Participate, Nothing Can Happen" The process is designed to continue functioning even when participation is imperfect. Important parenting issues may still need to be addressed. Myth #7: "If I Refuse to Pay, the Process Stops" The Agreement contains provisions intended to prevent one parent from defeating the process simply by refusing to contribute financially. Myth #8: "Recommendations and Determinations Are the Same Thing" A recommendation is guidance intended to help resolve an issue. A determination is a formal decision made within the Parenting Coordinator's delegated authority. Myth #9: "I Can Fire the Parenting Coordinator Whenever I Want" A parent generally cannot unilaterally terminate the Parenting Coordinator simply because they disagree with an outcome. Termination is usually governed by a structured process. Myth #10: "If the Parenting Coordinator Disagrees With Me, They're Biased" Disagreement does not equal bias. A Parenting Coordinator may reject a proposal, lack authority to grant a request, or reach a different conclusion while remaining entirely neutral. Key Takeaway: Parenting Coordination is not designed to eliminate conflict or determine who was right in the past. It is a structured process that helps parents implement parenting arrangements, resolve disputes, and move forward despite ongoing conflict. .
Previous Part
Revisit Part 8 on Accountability of Parenting Coordinators.
Clear answers to your contract questions
Straight answers to the common questions about the BC Parenting Coordination Roster Contract.