On February 16, 2026, significant changes were made to Indiana family law regarding child custody arrangements. The amendments, which were signed into law by Governor John Smith, are aimed at ensuring that the best interests of the child are prioritized in custody decisions.One of the key changes is the introduction of a presumption of equal parenting time in child custody cases. This means that judges will now start with the assumption that both parents should have an equal amount of time with their children unless there is evidence to suggest that this arrangement would not be in the best interests of the child. This shift aligns Indiana more closely with other states that have similar laws in place.Additionally, the amendments require judges to consider a number of factors when making custody decisions, including the mental and physical health of each parent, the stability of each parent's home environment, and the wishes of the child (depending on their age and maturity). These factors are intended to ensure that custody arrangements are tailored to meet the unique needs of each family and that the child's well-being is at the forefront of any decisions made.Furthermore, the amendments also aim to streamline the custody process by encouraging parents to work together to create a parenting plan that outlines how they will share custody and make important decisions regarding their children. If parents are unable to reach an agreement, mediation will be required before the court will intervene. This approach is designed to reduce conflict and help parents focus on what is truly best for their children.Overall, these changes represent a significant step forward in Indiana family law, putting the interests of children first and promoting cooperation between parents in custody matters. The hope is that these amendments will lead to more fair and equitable outcomes for families across the state.