Arkansas Court-Ordered Parenting Education Requirements
Arkansas requires both parents with minor children to complete a mandatory parenting education program in any divorce, legal separation, or custody case under Arkansas Code § 9-12-322. Both parents must file a certificate of completion with the court before the final divorce decree can be entered. The parenting education requirement typically costs between $30–$60 per parent. We have courses as low as $15 available.
Why this matters: Failure to complete the parenting education requirement will prevent the court from finalizing your divorce. The court cannot enter a final decree without proof that both parents have completed the requirement.
Arkansas Judicial Resources
For information about parenting education requirements, approved providers, and local court contacts:
Arkansas Judicial Branch — Family Law Resources
Arkansas Courts — Family Law Information
Contact your local circuit court clerk’s office for parenting education requirements and approved providers
Circuit Court Contacts by County
Arkansas has 28 judicial circuits covering all 75 counties
To find your circuit court: Search “[county name] Circuit Court Arkansas” or visit the Arkansas Courts website
Legal Aid Resources
Legal Aid of Arkansas — Family law information and resources for low-income parents
Arkansas Statute Reference
Arkansas Code § 9-12-322 — Parent Education Program
Arkansas law requires parent education for divorcing parents. The statute mandates that in any case involving a contested or uncontested divorce with minor children, both parents must complete a parent education or family stabilization program before the court enters the final decree. The program must address the effects of divorce on children and co-parenting responsibilities.
Key statute reference: Arkansas Code § 9-12-322
Related statute for custody:
Arkansas Code § 9-13-101 — Child Custody and Best Interest of Child
Arkansas Statute Reference
Arkansas law requires parent education for divorcing parents. The statute mandates that in any case involving a contested or uncontested divorce with minor children, both parents must complete a parent education or family stabilization program before the court enters the final decree. The program must address the effects of divorce on children and co-parenting responsibilities.
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Arkansas County Directory
The vast majority of Arkansas counties are known to accept certificates from online parenting education providers. But, under Arkansas Code § 9-12-322, individual judges in any circuit have the authority to issue special orders.
FAQ
Where do I submit my certificate in Arkansas?
You must submit your certificate of completion to the Clerk of the Court in the county where your case was filed or directly to your assigned Probation Officer. Many Arkansas District Courts allow for electronic submission or mailing, but you should verify the specific preference of your local jurisdiction.
Do Arkansas courts accept online parenting classes?
Yes, Arkansas courts generally accept online parenting education classes. Arkansas Code § 9-12-322 requires parent education but does not restrict it to in-person format. Most of Arkansas’s 75 counties accept online options. However, contact your specific circuit court to confirm, especially if you are in St. Francis County or if your judge has issued special orders about parenting class requirements.
What does the parenting class cover?
Arkansas’s parenting education programs address topics mandated by state statute, including the impact of divorce on children, co-parenting communication, the child’s emotional adjustment to family changes, and parental responsibility. The specific curriculum varies by provider, but all must meet Arkansas state standards.
What if I’m in St. Francis County?
St. Francis County may have local rules about parenting education. Contact the St. Francis County Circuit Court clerk’s office to confirm whether online parenting classes are accepted. If online is not accepted, you will need to complete an in-person class through a court-approved provider in the county.
When do I have to complete the class?
Arkansas Code § 9-12-322 requires the class to be completed before the final divorce decree is entered. Your court may have a specific deadline in your case. Check your divorce petition or contact your circuit court clerk to verify the deadline in your circuit.
Will the court accept my certificate?
Yes, provided you complete a parenting education program that meets Arkansas state statute § 9-12-322 requirements. File the certificate with the court as instructed in your divorce petition. Some courts file automatically; others require you to submit it directly to the clerk’s office.
What happens if I don’t complete the parenting class?
The court cannot enter your final divorce decree until both parents submit proof of completion of the parenting education requirement. Failure to complete the class will delay your case indefinitely. If the court orders the class and you refuse or fail to complete it, you may face sanctions from the judge.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate information regarding court requirements, laws and local rules can change. You should consult with a qualified legal professional or your local court clerk to confirm that an online certificate will satisfy the specific requirements of your case before enrolling.
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