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On January 17, 2026, the Iowa legislature passed a series of bills aimed at streamlining the child custody process in family court proceedings. The new legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Sarah Reynolds, is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026. This move comes as a response to increasing concerns over the lengthy and often contentious nature of child custody battles in Iowa.One of the key components of the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption of joint legal custody in child custody cases. This means that unless there is a compelling reason to do otherwise, courts will now be required to award joint legal custody to both parents. This change is intended to promote cooperation and co-parenting between divorced or separated parents, which research has shown to be in the best interest of the child.Additionally, the new legislation also includes provisions for the creation of parenting plans. These plans, which will be required in all child custody cases, will outline in detail how parents will share responsibility for their children's upbringing. This includes decisions regarding education, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and other important aspects of the child's life. By requiring parents to work together to create these plans, the hope is that the number of disputes that end up in court will be reduced.Another significant change introduced by the new legislation is the requirement for all parties involved in a child custody case to undergo mediation before going to court. This mandatory mediation process is aimed at encouraging communication and collaboration between parents, with the goal of reaching a mutually agreeable solution outside of the courtroom. Only if mediation fails to produce a resolution will the case be heard by a judge.Overall, the new family law legislation in Iowa represents a major shift towards a more collaborative and child-centered approach to resolving child custody disputes. By promoting joint legal custody, requiring parenting plans, and mandating mediation, lawmakers hope to reduce conflict, lower costs, and ultimately prioritize the well-being of children caught in the middle of divorce or separation. As these new laws come into effect later this year, families across Iowa can expect a more efficient and child-focused family court system.