If you’re involved in a divorce, custody dispute, or modification of a prior court order in Texas, you may be required to complete a Texas court-ordered parenting class—also known as a Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course. This requirement is common in family law cases involving the parent-child relationship, especially when the court determines it serves the child’s best interests.
When Is a Parenting Class Required in Texas Family Law Cases?
Under the Texas Family Code, a family court judge may order one or both parents to complete a Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course in any Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCR), including:
- Divorce with children
- Child custody cases
- Modifications of prior custody, visitation, or child support orders
The court may also require this course during temporary orders or as part of a final custody or divorce decree.
What Is Covered in a Texas Court-Ordered Parenting Class?
According to Texas Family Code § 105.009, a parenting class must include the following topics:
- Emotional effects of divorce or custody disputes on parents and children
- Age-appropriate parenting strategies
- Children’s behavioral responses to family transitions
- Conflict resolution and communication skills
- Stress indicators in children and teens
- Building a co-parenting relationship
- Financial responsibilities of parenting
- Family violence, spousal abuse, child abuse, and neglect
- Available community and legal resources
These courses are designed to help parents reduce conflict, make better decisions for their children, and maintain a healthier co-parenting dynamic after separation or divorce.
How Long Is the Parenting Course?
Most parenting classes required in Texas divorce and custody cases are around 4 to 12 hours in length. Many are available online and can be completed in segments. However, you should always confirm whether your specific judge accepts online courses.
Do I Have to Take the Class With the Other Parent?
No. In fact, courts often prohibit joint attendance especially in cases involving a history of family violence. Each parent usually completes the course separately.
Who Can Provide the Parenting Class?
Only certain professionals are authorized to offer court-approved parenting classes in Texas:
- Licensed mental health professionals with at least a master’s degree in counseling, family therapy, or parent education
- Religious practitioners or program counselors affiliated with a church or religious institution, if the litigant chooses this option
Is What I Say in the Course Confidential?
Yes. Statements made during the course cannot be used against you in your divorce or custody case. The course is protected by confidentiality rules, and reports from the class are not admissible in court unless both parties agree in writing.
What Happens If I Don’t Complete the Parenting Class?
Failure to complete a court-ordered parenting course can result in serious legal consequences, including:
- Being held in contempt of court
- Delays in your divorce or custody proceedings
- Sanctions, including fines or having pleadings struck under Rule 215, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure
Even though the case may proceed, non-compliance can hurt your standing in court—especially when the judge is focused on protecting the child’s best interests.
Can I Take the Course Online?
Yes. Texas courts generally allow parenting classes to be completed via:
- In-person instruction
- Online courses
- Video or electronic platforms
- Any combination of the above
Still, it’s important to confirm whether your judge or jurisdiction requires a specific provider or format.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
If you’ve been ordered to complete a parenting class in your Texas divorce or custody modification case, don’t delay. Judges frequently refuse to finalize a case if the class hasn’t been completed and the certificate hasn’t been filed.
We’ve seen clients arrive at court ready to finalize a divorce or custody agreement—only to be turned away because they hadn’t completed the course. This can result in added time, cost, and frustration.
What Should I Do With My Parenting Class Certificate?
Once you complete your parenting class, send the certificate to your attorney immediately so it can be filed with the court in advance of any scheduled hearings.
Need Help With Your Divorce or Custody Case in Texas?
At Denis Law Group, we help parents navigate complex divorce, custody, and modification cases across Central Texas, including Bexar County, Comal County, and surrounding areas. We ensure you’re fully prepared for all court requirements—including parenting classes, custody evaluations, and mediation.
Contact us today for experienced, compassionate legal guidance in your Texas family law matter.