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In a landmark decision, the Arkansas state legislature has passed a series of bills that will significantly impact family law in the state. These new laws, which go into effect on June 12, 2026, aim to modernize and streamline the family court system while also providing greater protections for vulnerable parties involved in family law cases.One of the most notable changes to Arkansas family law is the introduction of a new standard for determining child custody arrangements. Under the old law, courts were required to consider the best interests of the child when determining custody. However, the new law now explicitly states that joint custody is the preferred arrangement, with both parents sharing equal decision-making responsibilities for their children. This shift is in line with recent research that shows children fare better when both parents are actively involved in their upbringing.In addition to the changes in child custody laws, the new legislation also includes provisions aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence. Under the old law, victims of domestic violence often faced obstacles in obtaining protective orders against their abusers. The new law makes it easier for victims to obtain these orders by reducing the burden of proof required and streamlining the application process.Furthermore, the new bills also address the issue of spousal support, also known as alimony, in divorce cases. The old law had set guidelines for determining spousal support, but these guidelines were often seen as outdated and unfair. The new legislation now includes specific factors that courts must consider when awarding spousal support, such as the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living during the marriage.Overall, these changes represent a significant step forward in modernizing Arkansas family law and ensuring that the needs of families and children are prioritized in the legal system. While it remains to be seen how these new laws will be implemented in practice, they are already being heralded as a positive development by legal experts and advocates for family rights.