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In a landmark decision, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court announced today that there will be new guidelines for child custody and visitation in divorce cases. The updated guidelines, which will go into effect immediately, aim to provide a more equitable and consistent approach to determining custody arrangements in cases where parents are unable to reach an agreement.Under the new guidelines, judges will be required to consider a number of factors when determining custody, including the child's age, the parents' ability to co-parent effectively, and the child's relationship with each parent. In cases where parents are unable to agree on a custody arrangement, judges will be encouraged to consider shared custody arrangements where appropriate, in order to ensure that both parents have consistent and meaningful involvement in their child's life.Additionally, the updated guidelines include provisions for virtual visitation, in cases where physical visitation is not possible due to distance or scheduling conflicts. Virtual visitation allows parents to stay connected with their children through video calls and other electronic means, making it easier for parents to maintain relationships with their children even when physical visits are not feasible.The decision to update the guidelines comes after years of advocacy from family law attorneys and child advocates, who argued that the previous guidelines were outdated and did not adequately consider the best interests of the child. With the new guidelines in place, families in Massachusetts can expect a more fair and consistent approach to child custody and visitation cases, ensuring that the needs of children are prioritized in divorce proceedings.Overall, the new guidelines represent a major step forward for family law in Massachusetts, and are expected to have a positive impact on families across the state. As the legal community and families adjust to the changes, it is hoped that the new guidelines will lead to more amicable and child-centered custody arrangements, ultimately benefiting children and parents alike.