The Florida Parent Education Course is required for parents with minor children seeking a dissolution of marriage in Florida. Both parents must complete the course before the court finalizes the divorce.
If you are a parent with minor children and are seeking a divorce in Florida, you need to complete the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course. This course helps parents understand the impact of divorce on children and is a legal requirement for most divorces involving minors.
What Is a Dissolution of Marriage in Florida?
A dissolution of marriage is the official legal term for divorce in Florida. It is the process by which a court legally ends a marriage. Florida law requires only that one party shows the marriage is irretrievably broken, meaning the relationship cannot be repaired.
Parent Education Course Requirement
Florida Statute § 61.21 requires that both parents complete the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course before the court will finalize a dissolution of marriage involving minor children. The course is designed to help parents understand the effects of divorce on children and to promote positive co-parenting. The requirement applies to both the petitioner and the respondent, and each parent must complete the course individually.
Types of Dissolution of Marriage
There are two types of dissolution of marriage in Florida:
- Regular dissolution of marriage: Required for divorces involving minor children.
- Simplified dissolution of marriage: Available only to couples with no minor children and no unresolved issues regarding property or support. Parents with minor children are not eligible for the simplified process.
Regulator Oversight and More Information
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) oversees the requirements for the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course. For official rules and updates, visit the Florida Department of Children and Families website: the Florida Department of Children and Families.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official term | Dissolution of marriage |
| Common term | Divorce |
| Governing statute | Florida Statute § 61.21 |
| Parenting course required | Yes, for divorces involving minor children |
| Simplified dissolution available to parents | No |
| Regulator | Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dissolution of marriage the same as a divorce in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, ‘dissolution of marriage’ is the legal term for divorce.
Who is required to take the Florida Parent Education Course in Florida?
Both parents with minor children involved in a dissolution of marriage must complete the course individually before the court issues a final judgment.
Is the Florida Parent Education Course required for every divorce in Florida?
No. The Florida Parent Education Course is only required when the dissolution of marriage involves minor children or a paternity action.
Can both parents take the Florida Parent Education Course together?
No. Each parent must complete the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course separately.
What does ‘irretrievably broken’ mean in Florida divorce law?
It means the marriage cannot be saved, and there is no reasonable chance of reconciliation. Only one party needs to state this for the process to proceed.
Is legal separation available in Florida?
Florida does not offer legal separation as some other states do. Dissolution of marriage is the formal process to end a marriage.