Does the Florida Parenting Course Apply to Paternity Actions?
Yes. The Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course is required in paternity actions involving minor children, not only in dissolution of marriage cases.
Deadlines for Paternity Actions
The deadlines in paternity actions differ from dissolution of marriage deadlines:
Parent filing the paternity action: Must complete the course within 45 days of filing the paternity petition.
Other party: Must complete the course within 45 days of:
Acknowledging paternity, or
An adjudication of paternity, or
An order granting time-sharing or support from that party — whichever comes first.
Same Course, Same Requirements
The course content, format, and completion requirements are the same for paternity actions as for dissolution of marriage cases. Both parties still need individual enrollments, and each parent submits their own certificate to the court.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Required in paternity actions | Yes |
Filing parent deadline | 45 days from filing |
Other party deadline | 45 days from acknowledgment, adjudication, or order |
Course requirements | Same as dissolution of marriage |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the course the same whether I am in a divorce or a paternity case? Yes. The Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course is the same course regardless of whether you are in a dissolution of marriage or a paternity action. The deadlines and submission process are the same.
What if paternity has not been established yet? The other party's deadline is triggered when one of the qualifying events occurs — acknowledgment of paternity, adjudication, or an order granting time-sharing or support. Until one of those events occurs, their deadline has not started. Consult your attorney for guidance specific to your case.