What to Expect from Mandated Parenting Classes in an Illinois Divorce

 Posted on December 10, 2025 in Children of Divorce

Divorcing parents in Illinois face many requirements as they navigate the legal process, and one mandate catches nearly everyone by surprise: the parenting class. Most parents assume they already know how to parent their children, so the idea of attending a Court-ordered class can feel unnecessary or even insulting.

However, these classes serve a specific purpose that goes beyond basic parenting skills. The parenting education programs focus on helping children adjust to divorce and teaching parents how to minimize conflict during one of the most stressful times in a family's life.

As of 2026, Illinois Supreme Court Rule 924 still requires all parents involved in divorce or child custody cases with minor children to complete a Court-approved parenting education program. This requirement applies to divorcing parents throughout Northwest Cook County and its communities.

Our Mt. Prospect, IL divorce attorney can help you understand what to expect from these parenting classes so you can get divorced as quickly and amicably as possible. 

Why Does Illinois Require Parenting Classes During Divorce?

According to research from the Institute for Family Studies, certain factors in divorce have the potential to impact kids very negatively. When parents fight in front of their children, use them as messengers, or do not make an effort to stay in contact with their children after divorce, this can be more upsetting to children than the divorce itself.

The Illinois Supreme Court implemented the parenting education requirement to help parents understand how common behaviors during divorce can affect their children. The goal is to give parents information and practical skills, rather than providing counseling or attempting to reconcile the marriage.

Parenting classes cover subjects including parenting time, allocation of parental responsibilities (what used to be called custody), and the impact these arrangements have on children at different developmental stages.

In Cook County specifically, no final judgment regarding allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, or relocation shall be entered without both parties filing their certificates of completion, except for good cause shown. This means that, without a good reason, your divorce cannot be finalized until you complete the class.

Do We Have to Go to Parenting Classes for Our Cook County Custody Case?

The requirement applies broadly to almost all parents involved in family law cases. You must attend a parenting class if you have minor children and you are involved in a divorce case, a post-divorce modification of custody or parenting time, a parentage (paternity) case, or a relocation case.

Both parents must complete the program separately. Cook County Courts do not allow parents to attend the same class session together, even if the divorce remains amicable. This rule exists because Courts have found that parents participate more openly and honestly when the other parent does not attend the same session. Parents must complete the program as soon as possible but not later than 60 days after the initial case management conference. 

What Topics Do Divorce Parenting Classes Cover?

Cook County’s approved programs focus on three main themes designed to help parents understand their children's experience and respond appropriately.

How Do Kids Experience Divorce?

First, the classes examine how children of different ages and developmental stages experience separation and divorce. Young children often blame themselves for the divorce and fear abandonment. School-age children may experience loyalty conflicts and struggle academically. Teenagers might act out through risky behaviors or withdraw emotionally. Understanding these age-specific reactions helps parents recognize warning signs and respond supportively.

How Can Parents Protect Kids From Conflict?

Second, the programs teach parents how to shield their children from parental conflict. The classes explain that children feel caught in the middle when parents argue, use them to send messages to each other, or ask them to keep secrets. Parents learn specific communication skills for working with their co-parent without putting children in the middle. The focus on I-messages, setting boundaries, and managing strong emotions gives parents practical tools they can use immediately.

How Can Parents Help Their Families Adjust to Divorce?

Third, the curriculum provides information and resources to help families adjust to their new reality. The programs acknowledge that more complex issues may affect some families, including children with special needs, family and intimate partner violence, mental illness, and alcohol or substance abuse. While time constraints prevent detailed discussion of these topics, the programs provide information about accessing appropriate resources.

How Much Do the Cook County Divorce Parenting Classes Cost, and Who Pays?

Each parent usually pays for his or her own classes. Both Focus on Children and Children In Between Online cost $50 per person in Cook County as of January 2026. The Court may waive the fee only by Court order. Parents seeking a fee waiver typically need to show financial hardship, such as income below federal poverty guidelines or receipt of public assistance.

What Happens If You Do Not Complete the Parenting Class?

Purposefully not taking the parenting class can have serious consequences. Illinois Supreme Court Rule 924(c) gives Judges the authority to impose sanctions on any party willfully failing to complete the program. These sanctions could include holding you in contempt of Court, continuing your final hearing date, or making you pay for your spouse’s attorneys’ fees for making the case take longer.

More importantly, Cook County will not finalize your divorce until both parties file their certificates of completion with the Court. This means your entire case remains pending until you finish the classes.

If you reach your final hearing without completing the class, you can ask the Judge to waive the requirement. Judges have discretion to grant waivers for good cause, but you should not count on receiving one. The safer approach involves completing the class early in your case rather than waiting until the last minute.

Contact a Mt. Prospect Divorce Lawyer

Mandated parenting classes are just one part of the divorce process when children are involved. If you are considering divorce or dealing with custody issues in 2026, our experienced Northwest Cook County divorce attorney can help you throughout your case. Contact The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. at 847.873.6741 to schedule a free consultation.