Parenting Coordinators in Illinois: What Divorcing Parents Need to Know

Introduction: Why Parenting Coordination Matters

Divorce is rarely simple, and when children are involved, it becomes even more complex. Even after the dust settles from divorce, routine parenting decisions such as bedtime, homework, academic rigor, and extracurricular activities and more, can quickly escalate into major conflicts.  Repeated exposure to parental conflict can be emotionally devastating for children. That is why Illinois laws pertaining to family law recognize the role of Parenting Coordinators (PCs).

Parenting coordination is a relatively new process in Illinois, but it is already proving to be a valuable tool for families who struggle to co-parent effectively. This post explains what parenting coordinators are, how they work under Illinois law, what they can and cannot do, and why parents might encounter one during their divorce or custody case. It also explores the pros and cons, offers practical tips, and provides examples of how PCs can make a real difference.

What Is a Parenting Coordinator?

A Parenting Coordinator is a neutral professional appointed by the court to help parents reduce conflict, implement parenting plans, and resolve day-to-day disputes without having to return to court each time an issue arises.

Most parenting coordinators are either experienced family law attorneys or licensed mental health professionals. Think of a PC as part coach, part mediator, and part problem-solver—always with the focus on what is best for the child.

PC’s offer a quick and flexible method for resolving routine disputes that avoids the emotional and financial costs associated with court intervention. Their goal is not to take sides but to create an environment where parents can learn to communicate more effectively and keep the focus on what is best for the children.

Why Illinois Parent Should Care

For years, the use of parenting coordinators in Illinois was patchy. Some counties, such as Cook County, had developed local rules (like Local Rule 13.10) to allow courts to appoint PCs in high-conflict cases. Other counties had no formal programs at all, leaving families without access to this resource unless both parents agreed to hire one privately.

That changed in 2023, when the Illinois Supreme Court adopted Rule 909. This rule created a statewide framework for parenting coordination. It gives judges across Illinois the authority to appoint a parenting coordinator in appropriate cases and ensures that the qualifications, training, and scope of authority are consistent statewide.

The adoption of Rule 909 matters because it means that no matter where you live—whether in Cook County, DuPage, Lake, Kane, Will, or beyond—you may now encounter parenting coordination during your divorce or custody proceedings. For parents anticipating separation, understanding how this process works can help reduce surprises and prepare you to make the most of it.

What Parenting Coordinators Can—and Cannot—Do

It is important to know the scope of a PC’s authority.

Parenting Coordinators Can:

• Help parents resolve pick-up and drop-off issues when schedules clash.
• Clarify or modify holiday or vacation schedules to reduce arguments.
• Settle disagreements about extracurricular activities, such as sports or music.
• Provide guidance on school-related routines like homework expectations.
• Coach parents on improving communication so they can cooperate more effectively.

Parenting Coordinators Cannot:

• Change which parent has decision-making authority (legal custody).
• Alter major parenting time allocations set by the court.
• Decide whether a parent may relocate with a child.
• Address child support, spousal maintenance, or property division.

When a parenting coordinator makes a recommendation, either parent may object and ask the judge to review it. The court reviews the issue de novo, meaning it looks at the matter afresh rather than just deciding whether the PC was right. However, there is a risk: if the judge agrees with the PC’s recommendation, the parent who objected may be ordered to pay the other parent’s attorney’s fees. This rule is meant to discourage frivolous objections and encourage parents to take the PC’s guidance seriously.

Who Can Be a Parenting Coordinator?

Illinois requires parenting coordinators to be highly qualified professionals. Under Rule 909, a PC must generally have:

• A law degree or an advanced degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field.
• At least five years of professional experience in family law, mental health, or dispute resolution.
• Specialized training in domestic violence, child development, and family dynamics.
• A commitment to continuing education every year to stay up to date.

Most counties maintain an official roster of approved PCs. Some counties, like Cook and Lake, even publish these lists along with hourly rates so parents can understand the costs upfront. In certain cases, courts may appoint a coordinator at a reduced fee or even on a pro bono basis to ensure that families of modest means can still access the service.

Parenting Coordinator Pros & Cons

Benefits for Families

Parenting coordination can be transformative for families. With a neutral third party involved, parents tend to argue less and experience fewer power struggles. Everyday disputes that could otherwise take months in court are often resolved in a matter of days.

Because PCs get to know each family, they are able to help craft customized parenting plans that reflect the realities of a child’s age, school schedule, extracurricular commitments, and developmental needs. Along the way, parents often learn healthier ways to communicate and cooperate.

The greatest benefit is to the children. By minimizing conflict and shielding children from repeated exposure to parental fighting, PCs create a more stable and supportive environment for growth. Children can focus on school, friendships, and activities rather than feeling like referees in their parents’ battles.

Challenges to Keep in Mind

Of course, parenting coordination is not without its challenges. The most significant drawback is cost. Parenting coordinators typically charge between $150 and $400 an hour, and parents are usually required to split the expense. For families already stretched thin financially, this can be a serious obstacle.

Another significant drawback is that PCs have limited authority.  They cannot make recommendations on key child custody issues, which means some disputes may still require court involvement.

Some parents also resist the process, seeing it as intrusive or as an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy. And while PC sessions are generally confidential, concerns for child safety must be reported, which may cause anxiety for parents who worry their private discussions could later surface in court.

Finally, even though PCs are neutral, one or both parents may perceive bias. If one parent consistently disagrees with the coordinator’s recommendations, trust in the process can erode.

FAQ: Parenting Coordinators in Illinois

Who appoints the parenting coordinator?
The judge. Sometimes both parents agree to one, but the court can also appoint a PC on its own when conflict is harming the child.

Do we have to use one?
Not always. PCs are most common in high-conflict cases. If parents can cooperate, the judge may not find one necessary.

How long will we have one?
Usually for a set period, such as 12 months. The court order will spell out how long the appointment lasts and the scope of the PC’s authority.

What if I can’t afford it?
Some counties offer sliding-scale fees or pro bono coordinators. It’s always worth asking your attorney or the court about available options.

Practical Tips for Parents

1. Go in with an open mind. A parenting coordinator isn’t there to punish either parent but to help both work together more effectively.
2. Focus on your child’s needs. The process works best when parents remember that the child’s well-being is the priority.
3. Communicate respectfully. PCs notice patterns. Remaining professional helps build credibility.
4. Be prepared. Bring calendars, school schedules, and activity details so the PC can make informed recommendations.
5. Think long-term. The skills learned during the process—better communication, problem-solving, compromise—can help parents co-parent more successfully long after the PC is gone.

Example: How a Parenting Coordinator Helps

Finding Common Ground on Extracurriculars

Let’s explore a situation where a PC can help resolve or avoid a conflict.  Two parents share a child who is newly interested in both theater and travel hockey, but the activities often overlap leading to constant bickering over which activity takes priority.

With a parenting coordinator’s guidance, the parents step back and consider the child’s needs for both consistency and balance. Together, they explore several compromise options:

• Shared Commitment: Hockey continues during its main season, while drama classes are added in the off-season.
• Prioritization Plan: Hockey is prioritized for now, with drama taking precedence later if the child’s interest grows.
• Child-Led Choice: The parents agree to let the child choose one activity to pursue more deeply.
• Combination Approach: Both activities remain, but the schedule is adjusted to prevent the child from being overwhelmed and the parents agree on a comprehensive plan that determines which activity takes priority when they meet at the same time.

Instead of another expensive and emotionally draining court fight, the parents find a path that respects both their goals and their child’s development.

Final Takeaway

Parenting coordination is a growing tool in Illinois family law. While it carries costs and limitations, its benefits—less conflict, faster solutions, healthier communication, and reduced stress for children—make it an option worth considering in high-conflict cases.

If you are anticipating divorce or already dealing with custody disputes, contact us today to determine whether a parenting coordinator could help your family.