Many courts and probation departments allow online classes, but requirements vary by jurisdiction and by individual order. If you have been ordered to complete a court-approved class — whether for anger management, domestic violence, theft awareness, or drug and alcohol education — here is how online programs work and what you need to know.
There are two main types of online court-approved classes: live interactive classes (conducted via video conference platforms like Zoom) and self-paced pre-recorded classes. Which format your court allows depends on your jurisdiction and the specific requirements of your court order.
In a live class, you attend a scheduled session via Zoom or a similar platform, and a certified counselor leads the class in real-time. You can see the instructor, ask questions, and participate in discussions. Attendance is verified through video presence, and the experience is comparable to an in-person class.
Pre-recorded or self-paced online classes involve watching videos and completing quizzes or assignments at your own pace. While more convenient, this format has no live instructor, and some courts and probation officers require live instruction.
To participate in an online court-approved class, you will need: a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, a private and quiet environment, and the Zoom application (free to download).
During the class, your attendance is tracked and documented. The instructor records the start and end times of each session, monitors participant engagement, and verifies identity through video. This documentation is included in your completion certificate.
After completing all required hours, you receive an official completion certificate that includes: your full name, the program name and description, the number of hours completed, the date(s) of attendance, the instructor's name and credentials, and contact information for verification.
At Schroeder Counseling, all of our online classes are live, interactive Zoom sessions led by Jennifer Schroeder, M.S., CADC. We offer flexible scheduling with sessions available throughout the week, and your signed certificate is issued the same day you complete your required hours.