What Number Of States Mandate Parenting Classes For Divorcees?

Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Virginia require all parents filing a contested divorce to attend a parent education class. The rest of the states either leave it up to the judge’s discretion or only mandate parent education classes in certain counties or judicial districts. Currently, 46 states mandate some form of parent education, and 16 states require all divorcing parents to participate in a court-approved class.

The Center For Divorce Education discusses the purpose, benefits, and requirements of court-ordered parenting classes for divorcees since the late 1980s. Seventeen states require all divorcing parents, regardless of whether the divorce is uncontested or not, to attend some form of parent education class. Many California courts require that divorcee parents take parenting classes to understand how to best care for their families following a split. In Massachusetts, anyone with children seeking a divorce is required to take a parenting class.

Over 450,000 parents in all fifty states have either taken our online version, Children in Between Online (CIBO), launched in 2008. Over 5,000 parents have either taken our class online or in person. Across the nation, local or state courts in 46 states have mandated co-parenting education programs for divorcing parents and never-married parents in child custody.

Different states have statutes that mandate all parents who file for divorce, separation, child custody, and other related matters. Divorced parents can especially benefit from technology as they try to organize their kids’ schedules separately.

Do you have to take a parenting class to get a divorce in Oregon?

In the state of Oregon, county-level legislation mandates that parents must enroll in a parent education program prior to the adjudication of child custody and parenting time cases.

Is parenting class required for divorce in Illinois?

The Illinois Supreme Court mandates a parenting class for all couples with children who file for divorce in the state. The program requires each circuit or county to create and approve a parenting education program, covering topics such as parenting time, custody allocation, visitation, and the impact of parental responsibilities on children. Attendance is mandatory, with the class taking place within 60 days after an initial case management conference with a family law attorney.

If the respondent lacks jurisdiction or defaults, only the petitioning party is required to attend. Exceptions to attendance require good reason and a finding that excusing attendance is in the best interest of the children. The Illinois Supreme Court may impose sanctions on parties who willfully fail to complete the class within the required time limits. Getting out of a parenting class in Illinois is nearly impossible, requiring a motion in court and judge’s approval.

Does California require parenting classes for divorce?

California is one of 17 US states that mandates both parents to take parenting classes after a divorce, even if the divorce is uncontested and all terms are agreed upon. However, California courts often require these classes to ensure both parents are capable of parenting and co-parenting after the divorce. The most common situation for parents to take parenting classes is after a divorce, but other circumstances include adopting a child, becoming foster parents, changing custody agreements, paternity actions, or incidents requiring intervention by the police or Child Protective Services. The decision to mandate parenting classes depends on the court’s decision.

Is a parenting class required for divorce in Oregon?

In domestic relations cases involving child custody or parenting time, the court mandates parent education classes to educate parents about the challenges children face when their family structure changes. These classes focus on helping children adjust to divorce, separation, or living apart from a parent, and developing skills for successful co-parenting as separated parents. The Amhill Circuit Court offers these classes in Spanish, addressing the developmental needs of children and reducing conflict among parents and other child custodians.

Do you have to take a parenting class to get a divorce in Georgia?

Georgia’s Mandatory Parenting Seminar is a legal requirement for parents undergoing separation or divorce, aimed at educating them on the impact of their separation on their children. The seminar provides practical skills to reduce conflict and improve communication, fostering an environment conducive to their well-being. Its primary objective is to mitigate potential harm caused by family transition and helps parents appreciate the need to maintain an active, positive role in their children’s lives, even during personal turmoil.

The seminar is not exclusive to parents in divorce or separation, but may also be required for parents involved in paternity suits, custody disputes, visitation rights disputes, and other child-related issues. Some exceptions allow parents to attend online or via correspondence, or in cases of documented domestic violence or abuse, the requirement may be waived entirely. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand the specifics of your situation and potential exceptions.

Are parenting classes required for divorce in Florida?

Florida courts require parents to attend approved parent education programs in their county. If unable to find an approved program, a correspondence course can be taken by mail. If you live outside Florida, you can find more information in the packet received from the Clerk’s Office. In Miami-Dade County, divorce education courses are offered in English and Spanish. For further assistance, contact the Family Operations Division at 349-5561.

Do you have to take parenting classes to get a divorce in Colorado?

Colorado courts require couples who are getting divorced, separated, or petitioning a court to allocate parental responsibilities and have minor children to attend a mandatory parenting class and obtain a certificate. Both parents and children must attend a four-hour class on divorce and its impact on parenting, even if they agree on parenting issues or the children are almost emancipated. These classes can help parents understand the damaging impact of ongoing conflict on children and provide information on expected behavior and how to help them through the divorce process.

Do you have to take a parenting class to get a divorce in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, parents with minor children must complete a 4-hour parent education seminar under state code (Statute 36-6-408). Parenting and Divorce’s online class meets these requirements and has been approved by courts in many judicial districts. The course is administered by colleges and universities nationwide, benefiting both parents and their children. To check court requirements, choose a location near you. Both live and online classes are available.

Does Michigan require parenting classes for divorce?

In the state of Michigan, it is not uncommon for the courts to require parents involved in divorce, separation, or custody proceedings to complete a parenting class. The online course Children in Between is an accepted option for those seeking to fulfill their parenting class requirements. The course allows parents to complete it at their own pace, with the entire course taking 30 days to complete.

Is a parenting class required for divorce in Virginia?

In the state of Virginia, couples seeking a divorce with minor children are required to complete a parenting education course. A four-hour course is available for a period of 30 days, with access permitted for the same duration. A certificate can be obtained in a digital format for submission to the court. It should be noted that online classes may require court permission, but they can be taken from any location. The course is entirely online and does not utilize the Zoom platform.