Will I Have to Take a Parenting Class if I Get Divorced in Illinois and I Have Kids?

 Posted on January 24, 2022 in Family Law

Children are very sensitive to changes in their family. When parents divorce, children may struggle to adjust to a two-home lifestyle or become overwhelmed with emotions. They may act out at school, experience mental and physical health problems, or withdraw from their family and friends.

Because divorce and other major changes to the family unit are so hard on children, Illinois requires parents involved in family law proceedings to attend a parenting class. Read on to learn more.

Mandatory Parenting Class for Divorcing Parents in Illinois

If you are getting divorced, pursuing a paternity action, or are otherwise involved in a child-related family law dispute, you will likely be required to attend an educational course. The purpose of the course is to teach parents about how family reorganization and related changes affect kids and how to help their children cope with these changes. According to the Illinois Supreme Court, each circuit or county approves of a parenting class. The class must be at least four hours long. Unless good cause is shown, both parents are required to complete the parenting class within 60 days of the initial case management conference. The court has the authority to impose sanctions on any parent who intentionally fails to complete the parenting class. Even if your divorce is uncontested, meaning you and your spouse agree on the terms of the divorce, you will still be expected to complete the course.

How a Parenting Class May Benefit You and Your Children

Most divorcing parents are already overwhelmed with responsibilities, so a mandatory parenting class may seem like an additional burden. However, these classes can be beneficial for you and your child. The courses provide parents with useful information and practical skills for helping their child adjust to the new family structure. Parents may find that they are better equipped to handle post-divorce obstacles and co-parenting challenges after taking the class.

Contact a DuPage County Divorce Lawyer

Individuals engaged in children-related family law proceedings such as divorce, legal separation, and paternity actions may be required to take a parenting class. The purpose of the class is to equip parents with the tools they need to help their children get through this difficult time in their life. The class may also help divorced spouses be better co-parents.

For more information about divorce requirements for parents in Illinois, contact Goostree Law Group. Our accomplished Wheaton family law attorneys can provide dependable legal assistance and advice. Call 630-364-4046 for a free consultation today.

Source:

https://casetext.com/rule/illinois-court-rules/illinois-supreme-court-rules/article-ix-child-custody-or-allocation-of-parental-responsibilities-proceedings/part-b-allocation-of-parental-responsibilities-proceedings-under-the-illinois-marriage-and-dissolution-of-marriage-act-and-the-illinois-parentage-act-of-1984/rule-924-parenting-education-requirement