Divorce Parenting Class in Oregon

What is it?

​Oregon law requires that parties who are divorcing in Oregon and have at least one minor child at the time of the divorce complete a parenting education class offered by the county in which they file for divorce.

What is the class about?

The general theme is how to co-parent successfully after a divorce. The content may vary depending on the county and the particular presenter(s). If you intend to pursue mediation with Matthew House, please let his office know before you sign up for your parenting class. The way you fill out the registration form may be different depending on your mediation status.

Is it really required?

In general, and subject to any exceptions that a judge might grant, you cannot file your divorce paperwork until after both parties have completed the parenting class. It sometimes takes a month or two to find an available date.

It is less likely to receive a waiver of the requirement than it once was. In the past, Matthew routinely wrote letters to judges on behalf of his clients, setting forth the reasons that the parenting class should be waived for reasons that he would enumerate and customize for each family. Those requests were almost always granted, but the same is not so anymore. The change is likely because the Washington County class is now one session instead of four. All of the other counties have always required only one course, and all still do -- now including Washington County as well.

Even if the judge were to waive the requirement to attend the class, you don't know who your judge will be until you file your divorce paperwork.

County-Specific Costs and Requirements

The cost varies from county to county. As of January 1, 2026, here are the links to the Portland metropolitan area counties' classes:

• Clackamas County: Fee: $75 per parent
  

• Washington County: Fee: $200 per parent
  

• Multnomah County: Fee: $70 per parent

Unless you are given permission to take the course in a different county, you generally must take the course in the county in which you will file for divorce. You may file in any county in which at least one party resides. You must take the class that is approved by the county. Do not attempt to register for a course offered by a different entity unless you are granted permission to do so by the court. ​​​