Mandatory Divorce Class for Parents—Courts Won’t Finalize Your Divorce Without It! State Requirements & Legal Consequences

A mandatory divorce class for parents with children is a court-required parenting education program that divorcing parents must complete before a judge will finalize their divorce. Seventeen states require ALL divorcing parents with minor children to attend, while four additional states mandate classes only in contested divorces. Failure to complete court-ordered classes may lead to unfavorable outcomes in custody hearings or visitation rights, with courts viewing non-completion as a lack of commitment to the child’s well-being.

Courts have found that parental conflict related to divorce is a societal concern because children suffer potential short-term and long-term detrimental economic, emotional, and educational effects during times of family transition. These classes teach parents how to minimize harm to children, navigate co-parenting arrangements, and understand the legal framework governing custody and parenting plans.

What Is a Mandatory Divorce Class for Parents With Children?

A parent education class (or parent seminar) is a class designed to help families deal with the fallout of divorce, giving divorcing parents the tools they need to navigate custody arrangements and co-parenting while providing insight into what kids need during these big family changes.

These programs go by various names including:

• Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course
• Mandatory Parenting Class
• Divorce Education Class
• Children and Divorce Seminar
• Co-Parenting Education Program

The class may last as little as an hour or as much as eight hours, with most classes hovering between the two- and three-hour mark. In Massachusetts, each parent must pay a $49.00 course fee to the provider when registering, while costs usually fall under $100, with fee waivers available for financial hardship.

Which States Mandate Divorce Classes for Parents?

States Requiring Classes for ALL Divorcing Parents

Seventeen states currently require divorcing parents who share minor children to take some form of parent education and family stabilization course:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Massachusetts
• Missouri
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• Oklahoma
• Tennessee
• Utah
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin

States Requiring Classes for Contested Divorces Only

Four other states require ALL parents filing a contested divorce to attend a parent education class:

• Idaho
• Minnesota
• Nebraska
• Virginia

States With Judicial Discretion

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. In Texas, although parenting classes are not mandatory for all divorcing parents, judges have discretion to order them under Texas Family Code § 105.009 if the court determines it’s in the best interest of the child.

In Alabama, each County’s Circuit Court has discretion to order parenting classes, with some counties like St. Clair, Calhoun, and Tuscaloosa requiring classes even in uncontested divorces if there are minor children.

What Do Parents Learn in Mandatory Divorce Classes?

Most parenting classes follow a similar curriculum covering these core topics:

Impact on Children by Age Group Very young children have a different experience with divorce than tweens and teens—little kids may have more tantrums while older kids may withdraw or engage in risky behaviors.

Legal Framework and Court Procedures The issues and procedures for resolving time-sharing and child support disputes, including family problems and the emotional concerns and needs of the children.

Co-Parenting Skills and Communication These classes teach parents how to communicate constructively, avoiding conflicts, especially in the presence of their children. They offer insight into drafting a parenting plan that puts children first.

Stress Reduction Strategies How parents can minimize a child’s stress, including best practices for handling their reactions and behavior.

Financial Responsibilities Financial responsibilities to a child or children during and after divorce.

Community Resources The availability of community services and resources to support families during transition.

Abuse and Neglect Awareness Issues regarding spousal or child abuse and neglect.

How Long Do Mandatory Parenting Classes Take?

Class duration varies significantly by state and jurisdiction:

Most classes hover between the two- and three-hour mark, though some may last as little as an hour or as much as eight hours.

State-Specific Requirements:

• Florida: Four hours minimum, as required by Florida law for parents divorcing with children under age 18.
• Connecticut: Six hours, offered in either two three-hour classes or three two-hour classes.
• Massachusetts: Four-hour online co-parenting course “Two Families Now,” with 30 days to complete after registration.
• Oregon (Multnomah County): 3.5 hours long, and you must attend the entire class to receive a Certificate of Attendance.
• Oregon (Clackamas County): One-day, 3 1/2 hour class with two breaks.
• Texas: If ordered, classwork will be a minimum of four hours and no more than twelve hours.

When one Tennessee mom got divorced two years ago, she took a 12-hour online class with Children in Between—the Center for Divorce Education’s co-parenting programs. The variability underscores the importance of checking your specific jurisdiction’s requirements.

How Much Do Mandatory Divorce Classes Cost?

Sometimes, there is a fee to take a class, and it’s usually (with rare exceptions) under $100.

State-by-State Cost Examples:

• Massachusetts: $49.00 course fee per parent, with court fee waivers available for those who qualify.
• Oregon (Multnomah County): $70 per person, with fee waivers available based on low income.
• Oregon (Clackamas County): $75 for each participant, with pre-registration and pre-payment required.
• Florida: Courses can be as affordable as just $25.
• Pennsylvania and Ohio: Starting at $25 for online courses.

If the fee imposes a hardship, ask your court clerk if you could fill out a fee waiver application. If the Court fees in your case have already been waived, you are eligible to have this course fee waived.

Online vs. In-Person Mandatory Parenting Classes

Courts increasingly accept online formats, offering flexibility for busy parents:

Online Class Benefits: Many online parenting classes are offered in a video format, allowing you to complete them at your leisure, hitting the pause button to take breaks as needed. Online classes usually have “check for understanding” points that require you to enter a response on your keyboard at random times.

In-Person Options: In-person classes may be available in your location, with dates and times listed on the state court website or available by calling a phone number provided by the court.

Hybrid Live Online: Online courses are available via Zoom in many U.S. locations—these classes are an in-person/online hybrid.

Florida-Specific Online Rules: Most judicial circuits in Florida accept online course completion, but a small handful generally requires in-class participation only (e.g., 1st Judicial Circuit, 4th Judicial Circuit, 6th Judicial Circuit, and certain judges within other circuits).

For more information on divorce proceedings with children, understanding custody arrangements is critical.

Legal Consequences of Not Completing Mandatory Parenting Classes

Non-compliance carries serious penalties that directly impact your divorce proceedings and custody rights.

Divorce Delays

Non-compliance might cause delays in the finalization of divorce proceedings, adding to the duration and potential stress of the process. Failure to complete a required parenting class may delay your divorce process or affect custody decisions.

In King County, Washington, the consequence to the other party who has failed to complete the parenting class is that he/she is not permitted to maintain any future court action to enforce the Plan unless or until the class has been completed.

Contempt of Court

The judge may choose not to grant the divorce or may hold a parent in contempt of court. In many Florida counties, failing to complete the parenting class is considered a violation of a court order, meaning the non-compliant parent could face legal consequences, including fines or even being held in contempt of court.

Courts can jail parents who refuse to take the class—they will get tired of sitting in jail and comply.

Custody and Visitation Impacts

Failure to complete court-ordered classes may lead to unfavorable outcomes in custody hearings or visitation rights, with the court viewing non-completion as a lack of commitment to the child’s well-being.

The court takes the well-being of children seriously, and a parent’s failure to complete the parenting class may be viewed as a lack of commitment to their child’s best interests, potentially influencing the judge’s determinations and the outcome of your divorce and coparenting arrangements.

A Texas court could alter or restrict custody or visitation rights, and/or hold the parent in contempt of court.

Additional Financial Penalties

In some jurisdictions, failing to attend or complete the class might result in fines or the need to pay for and retake the course.

To ensure compliance with the parenting class requirement, the court may take enforcement measures including issuing a bench warrant for the non-compliant parent’s arrest or suspending their driver’s license.

Learn more about custody arrangements and how compliance affects your case.

State-Specific Requirements and Compliance Deadlines

Florida’s Strict Timeline

Florida law requires parents who are divorcing and who have children under the age of 18 to take a parenting class in an effort to educate the parents on how to minimize the collateral damage to children.

Petitioners filing a new divorce or paternity case in Florida have 45 days from the date of filing to complete a parenting course, while all other parties must complete the course within 45 days after service of the petition.

Unless excused by the court, the judge can levy serious penalties for refusing to take the course or failing to meet the requirement within the time period allowed.

Arizona’s Parent Information Program

In 1996, Arizona State Legislation created a Domestic Relations Education on Children’s Issues Program which is offered in each county of Arizona and sometimes known as Parent Information Program.

If you submit a settlement agreement to the court without first attending one of the many available classes, the judge may refuse to sign your documents until these have been completed.

Massachusetts Recent Updates

As of February 12, 2024, parents who are part of certain Massachusetts courts involving children must take a 4-hour co-parenting education course called “Two Families Now.”

Parents don’t have to take the course if they have filed a joint 1A no-fault petition for divorce.

Waiver Exceptions

Either or both parents can ask the court to “waive” the requirement if they have a written agreement on custody and/or parenting time issues, have already taken a similar course, or have other reasons why it would be unfair to make them take the course.

If there has been domestic violence, you can ask the court for a waiver—if the court grants the waiver, you don’t have to take the course.

For comprehensive information about divorce laws by state, understanding your jurisdiction’s specific requirements is essential.

Research-Backed Benefits of Mandatory Parenting Classes

The evidence supporting mandatory parenting education is compelling:

Reduced Conflict and Litigation

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, divorced couples that took parenting classes have shown a 30% to 53% reduction in parental conflict and a 57% reduction in litigation, which includes child-access, change-of-custody and child-support disputes.

Long-Term Child Outcomes

Children whose parents participated in the New Beginnings Program (NBP) showed decreases in mental disorders, substance use and abuse, risky sexual behavior, use of mental health services, and involvement in the justice system, with higher self-esteem, grades, educational attainment, and work competence—benefits that continued up to 15 years later.

Parent Satisfaction

Over 80% of parents said that family courts should recommend divorcing or separating parents complete the eNew Beginnings Program, with parents reporting “It got me and my children closer to each other” and “There are several tools I used immediately that my kids are big fans of.”

The entirely online program involves 10- to 30-minute classes once a week for six or 10 weeks, and parents who completed it reported less interparental conflict, increased quality of parenting and reduced behavior problems in children.

For information about alternative dispute resolution, collaborative approaches can complement parenting education.

How to Complete Your Mandatory Parenting Class: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Verify Requirements Check court requirements—review your divorce paperwork to confirm whether parenting classes are mandatory and which providers are approved.

Step 2: Choose an Approved Provider Select a provider that offers in-person or online options accepted by your court. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) maintains a list of eligible and approved providers who are allowed to certify the attendance of individuals who are required to complete the course.

Step 3: Register Early Sign up early and complete all required sessions, whether they are one-time or spread across several weeks. Be mindful that if you have an upcoming hearing, classes book several weeks in advance—plan accordingly.

Step 4: Complete the Course You must attend the entire class to receive a Certificate of Attendance. If you do not provide 24-hours notice for cancellation, you will need to pay the class fee again and sign up for another date, even if you have a fee waiver.

Step 5: Obtain Your Certificate The class registration includes a Certificate of Attendance. You will need to file the certificate of attendance with the court.

Step 6: File With the Court Provide the completion certificate to your attorney or directly to the court as required.

Step 7: Apply What You Learn Practice communication techniques, co-parenting skills, and strategies to support your children.

For more on filing for divorce, proper documentation and compliance are critical.

What Happens When One Parent Refuses to Take the Class?

Some judges will hold off on signing the final judgment and decree of divorce if a party hasn’t taken the parenting class, especially if that party is the moving party (i.e. the one who filed the case).

In Florida, if a parent does not complete the court-ordered parenting class within the 30-day period set by the judge, the court may delay further custody proceedings until the required course is completed, which could hold up any rulings or decisions related to parenting plans or custody.

Often the judge will issue an order to incarcerate the non-compliant party unless they take the class by the deadline.

Years can go by with one parent receiving contempt charges for not completing the class, as the divorce can be hinged on that requirement.

For guidance on contested divorce proceedings, understanding enforcement mechanisms is vital.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mandatory Divorce Classes

Are both parents required to take the class?

In many jurisdictions, yes—courts often require both parents to complete a class, either separately or together, depending on the program. Both parties must complete the course independently—even if they’re cooperating well or sharing a household during the divorce.

Can I take the class with my ex-spouse?

You cannot take the class together, and you cannot substitute another course or counseling session unless specifically approved by the judge. If a restraining order has been filed between the parties within the past 12 months, you may not come to the same class.

What if I can’t afford the class fee?

If the fee imposes a hardship, you can file an Affidavit of Indigency to request a waiver—if the Court fees in your case have already been waived, you are eligible to have this course fee waived.

Do I need to pass a test?

No, there is no test for the in-person class. However, some online courses may include quizzes or knowledge checks.

Can my lawyer take the class for me?

No. Program providers are strictly prohibited from soliciting divorcing parents to become their private clients and cannot give medical, psychological, or legal advice. You must personally attend and complete the requirement.

What if I’ve already taken a similar class?

You can ask for a waiver if you have already taken and finished this course or a similar course. If you have ever previously taken the parent education class, you do not need to take it again, even if you have a new court case, unless a judge specifically orders you to re-take it.

How do I know if my certificate will be accepted?

Find out how to get your certificate and where to submit it for approval—the required proof is usually outlined on the state website. Always confirm with your court or attorney that your chosen provider is approved.

For additional resources on family law procedures, consult with a qualified attorney.

Key Takeaways for Parents Facing Mandatory Divorce Classes

Mandatory divorce classes represent a significant court-mandated requirement that directly impacts your ability to finalize your divorce and secure favorable custody arrangements. Understanding which states require these classes, what they cover, associated costs and timelines, and the severe legal consequences of non-compliance is essential for any parent navigating divorce proceedings.

Beyond legal implications, not completing the class can hamper one’s skills and strategies for effective co-parenting. These programs provide valuable tools that benefit children long-term, with research showing reduced conflict, improved child outcomes, and better co-parenting relationships for families who take them seriously.

Don’t let non-compliance derail your divorce or custody case. Verify your state’s requirements early, register for an approved course, complete it within the required timeframe, and file your certificate promptly with the court.

For comprehensive legal guidance on divorce with children, custody arrangements, and family law matters, explore our related articles on divorce proceedings, child custody laws, and family law requirements.

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information about mandatory divorce classes for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws, parenting class requirements, and court procedures vary significantly by state and jurisdiction. Consult with a qualified family law attorney in your state for specific guidance on your case.

About the Author

Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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