What is happening with Parenting Classes during the COVID-19 pandemic?
In Massachusetts every divorcing parent of a minor child must take a court approved Parenting Class. Parent Education Program Attendance is governed by Massachusetts Probate and Family Law Standing Order 2-16. The class may also be required for parents in paternity or modification cases if ordered by the Probate and Family Court Judge.
Until recently the program was required to be conducted in an in-person setting. Exceptions to the rule could be made by filing a Motion to Waive Attendance or a Motion to Permit Completion of the Parenting Education on a DVD, however, these motions needed to be allowed by the Judge. Upon a demonstrable showing of significant health or financial issues, significant geographic or transportation issues or other significant barriers to an in-person program, the Judge might approve. The Judge is also able to waive fees for the program for indigent parents.
Given COVID-19, the Probate and Family Court has issued a Temporary Amendment to Standing Order 2-16. This temporary amendment is effective March 24, 2020. Approved parenting education programs are now allowed to facilitate “virtual” attendance programs by video conference. In the alternative, parents may instead complete the 5 hours DVD or online program entitled “KidCare for Co-Parents: an Educational Program for Divorcing Families.” Prior court permission from the Judge is not needed.
This means that parents currently have a flexible option to complete their Parenting Education Program. There are links below to the Standing Order and to the Temporary Amendment.
Temporary Amendment to Standing Order 2-16
Standing Order 2-16