Critics argue it would create messier divorces, not prevent them. And the tougher restrictions could endanger women in abusive marriages. Many state legislators agree with Olson. Following the leads of those in the community marriage policy arena, state legislators have proposed an array of options including making premarital counseling a mandatory requirement in obtaining a marriage license, lower license fees for those who attend marriage preparation courses and delays in getting marriage licenses for those who opt not to go do premarital work. Michigan State Representative Jessie Dalman has introduced a law that would require couples who refuse premarital preparation classes to wait 60 days for a marriage license instead of three.
Premarital education comes in many formats.
Some courses last only a few hours or a day or two and are lecture-based. Others last longer and provide more skills practice and interaction between couples. Marriage and family therapists are specifically trained to work with couples on family life issues and interventions. But other mental health professionals may also have appropriate training. Many of the programs listed above typically involve and train clergy members in their efforts.