Experienced Parenting Consultant In Minneapolis
Disagreements over schedules, decisions or communication can escalate quickly, creating stress for parents and children. A parenting consultant (PC) offers guidance and structured support, helping families resolve disputes without immediately returning to court. Working with an experienced Minneapolis family lawyer can help you understand when and how to involve a PC.
I am family law attorney Zak Kretchmer, the founder of Kretchmer Family Law, PLLC. With over 20 years of assisting local families, I provide neutral services as a parenting consultant to parties in Minneapolis, St. Paul and surrounding communities. With my help, parents can promote stability for children, save time and reduce legal fees.
What Is A Parenting Consultant?
A parenting consultant (PC) is a neutral professional hired to assist with ongoing co-parenting disputes. A judge can only appoint a PC if both parents explicitly consent to the process.
The court cannot force anyone to use one, so if one parent refuses, the option is unavailable. That said, once both parties agree, the court signs their agreement, turning the engagement into an enforceable court order.
Parenting consultants are typically retained for at least one year, often two, and sometimes until the emancipation of the youngest child. They provide continuous support as co-parenting challenges evolve.
While their roles depend entirely on what the parents authorize in their initial contract, they can potentially address a wide variety of issues. This can cover a lot of different issues, including the authority to change the parenting schedule if the PC appointment order includes that authority.
The Out-Of-Court Judicial Officer
High-conflict co-parents often spend hundreds of dollars per hour having attorneys argue over small matters such as a Friday afternoon pick-up time. Parenting consultants reduce these costs by stepping in early, coaching parents and suggesting solutions before disputes escalate. If an agreement cannot be reached, the parenting consultant makes a binding decision, which can be reviewed by the family court judge if desired.
Addressing issues outside the courtroom with parenting consultants helps families reduce court appearances and minimize stress, providing a financially and emotionally smarter path.
Neutral Decision-Making For High-Conflict Co-Parenting
When co-parenting disputes persist, a PC can act as a neutral referee. They enforce existing parenting plans and are a decision-maker, consistent with the best interests of the children.
This role is especially effective in parenting time disputes, helping parents maintain consistent routines and prioritize the children’s needs.
Call My Minneapolis Family Law Office Today For Compassionate Legal Help
If you are facing high-conflict co-parenting challenges, a parenting consultant may be a good option. At Kretchmer Family Law, PLLC, I can serve as a parenting consultant, helping clients in Minneapolis implement child-focused dynamics.
Call my firm at 612-887-3997 or fill out the online form today.