In 1996, the Arizona State Legislature established a Domestic Relations Education on Children’s Issues Program, now offered in each Arizona county. This program sometimes is referred to as the parent education program or parent information program. Although the programs may differ somewhat in each county or even within counties, each is designed to offer education to parents about the impact that divorce, the restructuring of families and judicial involvement have on children. The Arizona Supreme Court sets minimum standards for these programs, including the topics to be covered and qualifications of course presenters.

Parents who have a child in common who is less than eighteen years old must attend the program when involved in a court case for dissolution of marriage (divorce) or for legal separation. Unmarried parents involved in a court case to establish paternity or maternity also must attend the program if the court has been asked to decide custody, parenting time or child support. Parents who fail to attend the program as ordered may be refused any specific request for court action, may be held in contempt of court or may have other penalties imposed.

The program lasts up to four hours in length and a fee may be charged to each participant based on the best interests of the child. The course is offered by a variety of providers, including both brick and mortar providers and online providers.