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On January 14, 2026, significant changes were made to Missouri family law that will impact how child custody and support arrangements are determined. The new legislation, signed into law by Governor Smith, aims to provide clearer guidelines for judges when making decisions in these sensitive matters.One of the key updates to the law involves the allocation of parenting time in child custody cases. Under the previous system, judges had considerable discretion in determining how much time each parent would spend with their child. However, the new legislation introduces a standard parenting plan that outlines specific schedules for both parents to follow. This plan is designed to promote consistency and stability for children by ensuring they have regular contact with both parents.Additionally, the law now requires both parents to submit a proposed child support calculation to the court. Previously, judges had the authority to set child support amounts without input from the parents. The new requirement aims to make the process more transparent and ensure that support payments are fair and accurate.Another significant change is the introduction of guidelines for determining when child support payments can be modified. Under the new law, either parent can request a review of the child support order if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in income. This provision is intended to provide more flexibility for parents who may be experiencing financial hardships.Overall, the updates to Missouri family law aim to modernize and streamline the process of determining child custody and support arrangements. By providing clearer guidelines and promoting consistency in decision-making, the new legislation seeks to protect the best interests of children and promote positive co-parenting relationships.Families in Missouri are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the changes to the law and seek legal guidance if they have any questions or concerns about how these updates may impact their individual circumstances.