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On July 27, 2025, the California state legislature passed a series of new laws aimed at improving child custody proceedings and better protecting the rights of children during divorce and custody disputes. These new laws mark a significant shift in California family law, with a focus on prioritizing the well-being and best interests of children involved in family court cases.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the requirement for judges to consider the wishes and preferences of children when making custody decisions. Under the new law, children over the age of 10 will have the opportunity to express their opinions and preferences regarding custody arrangements, and judges will be required to take these into account when making their rulings.In addition, the new laws also aim to streamline the custody evaluation process and reduce the length of time that children are involved in contentious custody disputes. Judges will now have the authority to appoint neutral third-party evaluators to assess the needs and preferences of children, with the goal of expediting custody decisions and minimizing the trauma and stress experienced by children during custody battles.Furthermore, the new legislation includes provisions to protect children from exposure to domestic violence and other harmful situations during custody proceedings. Judges will now have the authority to order supervised visitation or other protective measures when necessary to ensure a safe and stable environment for children during custody exchanges.Overall, the new laws represent a significant step forward in protecting the rights and well-being of children involved in custody disputes in California. By prioritizing the voices and needs of children in family court proceedings, the state aims to ensure that children are able to maintain healthy and stable relationships with both parents, even in the midst of a divorce or custody battle.