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In a groundbreaking move, Arizona Governor Jane Doe signed into law a sweeping reform of the state's family law system on July 21, 2025, aimed at prioritizing the welfare and best interests of children in custody and visitation disputes.The new legislation, known as the Children First Act, introduces several key changes to the way family courts handle cases involving children. One of the most significant changes is the requirement for judges to consider the child's preferences when determining custody arrangements. Under the previous law, judges were not required to take children's wishes into account, leading to decisions that may not have been in the child's best interests.Additionally, the Children First Act establishes a presumption of shared custody, meaning that both parents are presumed to be equally responsible for the care and upbringing of their children unless proven otherwise. This is a departure from the previous system, which often favored one parent over the other in custody disputes.The new law also emphasizes the importance of co-parenting and encourages parents to work together to make decisions about their children's upbringing. It mandates the use of parenting plans to outline the responsibilities of each parent and create a roadmap for co-parenting post-divorce or separation.Furthermore, the Children First Act places a greater emphasis on the mental and emotional well-being of children involved in custody disputes. It requires judges to consider the impact of parental conflict on children and encourages the use of therapeutic interventions to help families navigate the challenges of divorce or separation.Governor Doe hailed the passage of the Children First Act as a significant step towards creating a more child-centric family law system in Arizona. She stated, "This legislation puts the best interests of children front and center in all custody and visitation proceedings. By prioritizing the welfare of our children, we are creating a more compassionate and equitable family law system that serves the needs of families across the state."The Children First Act will go into effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have a profound impact on the way family courts in Arizona handle custody and visitation disputes. Family law attorneys and advocates have welcomed the reform, predicting that it will lead to more positive outcomes for children and families in the state.