Custody

If you are a parent in a divorce or custody and visitation case, Iowa law requires you to attend a court-approved parenting class about how children are affected by their parents’ separation or divorce.¹ The class may be called “Children in the Middle,” “Children in Between,” “Children Cope with Divorce,” or something similar.

You and the other parent are supposed to take this parenting class within 45 days of the court papers being served. You both must take the class before the judge can issue a final divorce decree or custody and visitation order unless the judge has waived your attendance for a good reason (“good cause”).¹ Each parent is responsible for arranging to take the class and pay for the cost.² Contact the clerk of court in your county to find out which classes are accepted in your county. According to the Iowa Courts website, some counties accept online classes, but others don’t.

¹ IA ST § 598.15(1) 
² IA ST § 598.15(2)