Child custody matters can be among the most contentious in a divorce, and disagreements between a divorcing couple regarding parenting decisions and custody can complicate the case and prevent resolution. That is why the Illinois Supreme Court recently announced adopting new Rule 909, which sets up a framework for family courts to use parenting coordinators to resolve minor problems that cause conflict in family law cases.
This article details Rule 909 and how it could affect a child custody case. Chicago family law attorney Michael C. Craven can help if you have questions about Rule 909 on parent coordinators or any other child custody-related matter.
New Rule 909 Overview
New Rule 909, which was initially proposed by the Illinois State Bar Association and recently approved by the Supreme Court Rules Committee in May 2023, allows for an Illinois judicial circuit, if it desires, to set up a parent coordination program through local rule. Several Illinois judicial circuits, such as Cook County, have already established parenting coordination programs.
Under Rule 909, ‘parenting coordination’ refers to a child-focused process for alternative dispute resolution performed by a licensed mental health or family law professional that the court appoints. The parenting coordinator’s role is to help parents who cannot agree on parenting decisions or obey parental agreements and court orders. The coordinator works with both parties to resolve minor disagreements affecting the child’s best interests.
More About Parenting Coordinators
Under the rule, the family law court could authorize a parenting coordinator to recommend a current parenting plan, such as the place, time, and manner for picking up or dropping off the children. Other issues may include the nature and extent of the child’s participation in various extracurricular activities, including paying expenses or any other problem the court assigns to the parenting coordinator.
However, the parenting coordinator cannot provide recommendations about how parental responsibilities are allocated, nor can they make decisions on these issues:
- Parent relocation
- Establishing the visitation of a non-parent
- Child support
- Alimony
- Allocation of debt or property of the marriage
If the parenting coordinator cannot resolve the conflict between the parents, one or both can file with the court a petition to review the coordinator’s recommendations. Other roles of the parenting coordinator are
- Encourage parents to work together for the best interests of the child.
- Help parents collaborate and communicate in a more positive manner.
- Educate the parents about what the child needs so that timely and appropriate decisions can be made.
- Resolve family conflicts promptly to reduce the animosity to which the child is exposed.
How Do You Get A Parenting Coordinator Assigned To Your Case?
In Cook County, the court can assign a parenting coordinator to a case in certain situations. They are if the court finds:
- The parents cannot cooperate and communicate regarding issues involving the child or have been unable to follow a parenting schedule or plan.
- Mediation was either unsuccessful or was determined by the court to be inappropriate.
- Appointing a parenting coordinator is in the best interests of the child.
Contact Our Chicago Family Law Attorneys Today
If you have questions about Rule 909 regarding parenting coordinators, our Chicago family law attorneys can help. Contact attorney Michael Craven today at (312) 621-5234 for a consultation about this rule and other family law matters.
