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On September 2, 2025, the state of New Hampshire introduced new proposed legislation aimed at modernizing and streamlining family court procedures. The Family Law Reform Act, which is being hailed as a crucial step in ensuring fair and efficient resolution of family law matters, covers a wide range of issues including divorce, child custody, and domestic violence protection.One of the key provisions of the act is the implementation of a mandatory mediation program for divorcing couples. Under this program, couples would be required to attempt mediation before proceeding to court to resolve disputes related to property division, alimony, and child custody. Proponents of the measure argue that this will not only reduce the burden on an already overwhelmed family court system but also provide couples with a less adversarial and more collaborative way to reach agreements.In addition to the mediation program, the Family Law Reform Act also includes provisions aimed at improving the process for determining child custody arrangements. The act establishes a presumption of joint legal custody, meaning that both parents would have equal rights and responsibilities in making decisions about their children's upbringing. However, the act also allows for exceptions in cases where joint custody would not be in the best interests of the child, such as instances of domestic violence or substance abuse.Another significant aspect of the legislation is the inclusion of provisions to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence. The act expands the definition of domestic violence to include emotional abuse and financial control, and it provides victims with more robust legal remedies, such as the ability to obtain emergency protective orders and access to free legal representation.Overall, the Family Law Reform Act represents a comprehensive effort to modernize New Hampshire's family court procedures and better serve the needs of families navigating the complexities of divorce and custody disputes. The proposed legislation is set to undergo further review and public input before potentially being enacted into law in the near future.