HB374 Alabama 2014 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Bill Poole

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2014

Title

Marriage dissolution education programs, participation is required for certain parties in marital dissolution actions with minor children; program requirements established, fees

Summary

HB374 would require married couples with minor children to complete a four-hour marriage dissolution education program before filing certain divorce actions, set program standards, and outline who pays for it.

What This Bill Does

It requires a four-hour marriage dissolution education program before a party serves a petition, counterpetition, or answer in a divorce or separation action, with a completion certificate filed at the court. The program must be supervised by qualified professionals, can be in-person or online, and cover parenting, the legal process, and reconciliation, with at least 75% of time on parenting and child adjustment. Local jurisdictions must maintain lists of approved programs, and the cost for the program is capped at $75 with fee waivers available for low-income participants. The act also establishes certificate formats and allows waivers or judge discretion in certain cases, and it applies to filings on or after January 1, 2015.

Who It Affects

• Married couples with minor children who are going through a divorce or separation; they must complete the program and obtain a completion certificate before filing or responding to divorce actions.
• Courts, clerks, local jurisdictions, and approved program providers who must enforce the filing requirements, manage program lists, collect fees, and determine fee waivers.

Key Provisions

• A four-hour marriage dissolution education program is required for couples with minor children before serving a petition, counterpetition, or answer; filings must include a certificate showing completion within 120 days prior to filing for each party.
• Programs must be supervised by professional family life educators or licensed mental health professionals, may be in-person or online, and must use evidence-based content; at least 75% of program time focuses on parenting and child adjustment, with information on domestic violence resources and safety.
• Local jurisdictions must establish lists of approved programs; existing programs can continue for two years after the act’s effective date if they meet criteria by December 31, 2015.
• Costs are paid by participants, with waivers for those under 200% of federal poverty guidelines or who qualify for forma pauperis; the maximum cost for the four-hour program is $75.
• Certificates of Completion or Certificates of Impossibility are used to document fulfillment or inability to complete the program, with the judge able to waive requirements in certain circumstances.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Family Law