The interdisciplinary partnerships of legal, judicial, and mental health professionals are
essential steps toward the goal of systematic preventive outreach to children and families
Partnerships between courts and community organizations are an essential link to providing
personnel and resources to carry out programs and initiatives, such as those described in
this special issue. Courts can act on behalf of children by implementing policies, practices,
and programs that help reduce protracted acrimonious legal proceedings involving children.
Legislation has been passed in some states to mandate parents to attend group co-parenting
training programs. The goal of such efforts is laudable, however, many programs are not
based on research, and lack evidence of effectiveness. Parent programs with an evidence
base of effectiveness have tremendous potential for ameliorating or preventing the negative
consequences of divorce (Wolchik et al., 2002). The key is to adapt programs and practices
that are known to be effective. The challenges families face require the collective wisdom
and experience of interdisciplinary teams sharing resources and skills.