In a groundbreaking development for family law in Arkansas, major changes to child custody and support laws were implemented on February 23, 2026. The amendments, which aim to prioritize the well-being of children and streamline the legal process for families, have been met with both praise and criticism from various stakeholders in the state.One of the key changes introduced in the new legislation is the adoption of a default shared custody arrangement in cases of divorce or separation. Under this provision, parents will be required to share physical custody of their children equally, unless there are extenuating circumstances that warrant a different arrangement. This move is seen as a step towards promoting co-parenting and ensuring that children maintain strong relationships with both parents following a split.Additionally, the new laws also include guidelines for determining child support payments based on a standardized formula that takes into account factors such as parental income, living expenses, and the needs of the child. This formula is aimed at providing a more fair and consistent method for calculating child support, which has been a point of contention in many family law cases in the past.In response to these changes, family law attorneys in Arkansas have expressed a mix of opinions. Some believe that the default shared custody arrangement will benefit children by keeping both parents actively involved in their lives, while others argue that it may not always be in the best interests of the child, particularly in cases where one parent is unfit or abusive.Critics of the new laws have also raised concerns about the potential for increased conflict and litigation between parents who may now feel compelled to fight for equal custody. They worry that this could lead to prolonged and costly legal battles that ultimately harm the children involved.Despite the mixed reactions, it is clear that the changes to Arkansas family law are significant and have the potential to reshape the way child custody and support cases are handled in the state. As families and attorneys begin to navigate these new laws, it remains to be seen how they will impact the overall well-being of children and the dynamics of family relationships in Arkansas.