In a landmark move to protect the rights of children in Hawaii, state legislators have passed a series of family law reforms that aim to prioritize the best interests of the child in custody and visitation disputes. The new laws, which will come into effect on January 1, 2026, mark a significant shift in the state's approach to family law and are expected to have a lasting impact on the way custody decisions are made in Hawaii.One of the key reforms is the introduction of a presumption of shared custody, which stipulates that both parents should have equal access to their child unless there is evidence of abuse or neglect. This move is designed to ensure that children maintain strong relationships with both parents following a divorce or separation, and to prevent one parent from unfairly limiting the other's access to the child.In addition, the new laws also require judges to consider the wishes of the child when making custody decisions, taking into account factors such as the child's age and maturity. This is aimed at empowering children to have a say in their own custody arrangements and to ensure that their voices are heard in court.Furthermore, the reforms also strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence, with judges required to consider allegations of abuse when making custody decisions. This is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding the well-being of children and ensuring that they are not exposed to dangerous or hostile environments.Overall, the reforms are being hailed as a positive step towards creating a fairer and more child-focused family law system in Hawaii. By prioritizing the best interests of the child and empowering children to have a say in their own custody arrangements, the new laws are expected to lead to more equitable outcomes for families across the state.The reforms have been met with widespread support from family law experts, child advocacy groups, and lawmakers, who believe that they will help to create a more just and compassionate family law system in Hawaii. As the new laws come into effect in the new year, families in the state can look forward to a more child-centered approach to resolving custody disputes and ensuring the well-being of their children.