The Delaware County Domestic Relations Court has received international recognition for its commitment to helping families navigate separation or divorce with dignity, respect, and hope.

The domestic relations court was honored for its Co-Parent Coaching Program with the prestigious Irwin Cantor Innovative Program Award. The Co-Parent Coaching Program is an evidence-informed initiative designed to reduce parental conflict, strengthen communication, and improve outcomes for children whose families are experiencing separation or divorce.

The court’s program was selected for the award by the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) this year because it found the court to be committed to equipping parents with practical skills, guidance, and support. Co-parent coaching has the potential to de-escalate conflict between parents, improve effective communication, and help families resolve disputes in a more constructive manner. By emphasizing collaboration instead of conflict, the Delaware County program assists parents with creating stable, supportive environments where children can thrive.

“This international recognition is an incredible honor for our court and our entire court team,” said Judge Randall D. Fuller of the Delaware County Domestic Relations Court. “We are here to serve families in ways that not only resolve legal issues but also improve the lives of children.”

“Every family that comes before the court deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” Judge Fuller added. “While we cannot erase the difficulties that accompany divorce or separation, we can provide parents with tools that help reduce conflict, preserve important family relationships, and place the needs of children at the center of every decision. When parents learn to communicate more effectively, children benefit, families become more resilient, and our communities are stronger.”

The program is led by Amy Armstrong, a licensed social worker who introduced co-parent coaching to the court and has helped develop it into an effective resource for families.

“It is an honor to work with Judge Fuller and the supportive domestic relations court staff,” Armstrong said. “Our Co-Parent Coaching Program helps families move through conflict while protecting their children.”

As courts across the country continue to seek more effective approaches to addressing family conflict, the court’s staff believe the program serves as a model for helping parents move beyond conflict, embrace shared responsibility, and create healthier futures for their children.

The Irwin Cantor Innovative Program Award recognizes courts and organizations that create effective, forward-thinking programs that improve the lives of children and families involved in family law matters.

AFCC is the premier interdisciplinary international association of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children and families through the resolution of family conflict. The organization brings together judges, attorneys, mental health professionals, mediators, researchers, and other professionals committed to advancing education, research, innovation, and best practices in family justice.