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On January 16, 2026, the Idaho Family Law Department made a significant announcement regarding new guidelines for custody disputes in the state. The department stated that the changes were implemented in order to streamline the custody process, reduce conflict between parents, and prioritize the best interests of the children involved.One of the key changes introduced by the Idaho Family Law Department is the implementation of a mandatory mediation process for all custody disputes. Under the new guidelines, parents will be required to attend mediation sessions before proceeding to court in order to try and reach a mutual agreement regarding custody arrangements. This is aimed at reducing the strain on the court system and providing parents with a more cost-effective and efficient means of resolving their disputes.Additionally, the department announced that it will be placing a greater emphasis on co-parenting in custody agreements. Parents will be encouraged to work together in a co-parenting relationship, rather than resorting to adversarial tactics. The department believes that fostering a cooperative and collaborative approach will ultimately benefit the children involved by providing them with stability and a sense of security.Furthermore, the Idaho Family Law Department stated that it will be introducing new guidelines for the allocation of parenting time. The department will consider factors such as the child's age, relationship with each parent, and living arrangements when determining a fair and equitable parenting schedule. The aim is to ensure that both parents have meaningful and substantial time with their children, while also taking into account the child's needs and best interests.Overall, the new guidelines introduced by the Idaho Family Law Department aim to provide a more streamlined and effective process for resolving custody disputes in the state. By promoting cooperation between parents, prioritizing the best interests of the children, and implementing mandatory mediation, the department hopes to reduce conflict and promote positive outcomes for families in Idaho.