Any parent simply wants what is best for his or her children. Making sure that children are stable and secure are key components of ensuring that children thrive and grow. While a divorce signals the beginning of a new chapter for parents and children alike, the upheaval can be a difficult transition for the children. Parents will need to work together to co-parent their children in new ways following the separation or divorce. The New Jersey Parent Education Program is designed to help parents adjust to this new normal.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:34-12.5, every person who has filed for divorce or separation where custody, visitation, or support is at issue will be ordered by the court to attend the Parents’ Education Program. Both parents are required to complete the course before the final judgement of divorce or custody is entered. If either parent fails to complete the course as ordered, the judge can take this failure into account when making its final custody and visitation determination.
The purpose of the Parent Education Program is to help parents cooperate and prepare for issues that may arise out of the divorce or custody case. These issues include matters such as how to talk about the divorce with the children, understanding the division of financial responsibilities between the parents, and providing techniques to help the children transition and understand the new family structure. Each year, the curriculum is updated by an advisory committee. These changes help reflect the constantly evolving issues involved in family law cases.
When registering for the course, parents will be required to pay a twenty-five-dollar registration fee. The money is paid into the Parents’ Education Fund which was established by the New Jersey legislature to create the program, as well as provide for its continuing maintenance and administration. Parents should be aware that the registration fee is separate from any potential fee charged by the different agencies who may offer the parenting classes. Before selecting a course, parents should also make sure the course fulfills the requirements for parenting education in New Jersey, as well as ensuring the course is sufficiently long.
If you have questions about your rights and responsibilities during a divorce, contact us today. We have extensive experience with helping our clients navigate this process.
Are you interested in seeking an annulment? If so, contact Williams Law Group, LLC right away. Our family law attorneys will review your case to determine if an annulment is an option. If it is, we will guide you through the process and ensure you make the best decisions for your future. Call our office at (908) 738-8512, email us at info@awilliamslawgroup.com, or contact us through our confidential online form to schedule a consultation.
