In a significant development in New York's family law landscape, a new bill was passed today that aims to strengthen and clarify child custody and visitation rights for parents. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor on March 31, 2026, addresses several key issues related to custody arrangements and visitation schedules in the state.One of the main provisions of the new law is the establishment of a presumption of shared custody, meaning that unless there are extenuating circumstances, both parents will be granted equal time with their children. This is a departure from the previous default assumption of sole custody for one parent, which many advocates argued was outdated and unfair. The new law also requires judges to consider the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements, with a focus on maintaining strong relationships with both parents.Additionally, the bill includes provisions aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence. Under the new law, judges are required to consider allegations of abuse or violence when making custody decisions, and may restrict or deny visitation rights to a parent who poses a risk to the safety of the child or the other parent. This represents a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all family members in custody disputes.In response to the passing of the bill, family law experts and advocates have expressed support for the changes, noting that they will help to modernize New York's family court system and prioritize the needs of children in custody cases. They believe that the new law will help to reduce conflict between parents, improve communication and cooperation, and ultimately benefit the children involved in these difficult situations.Overall, the new family law bill in New York represents a positive step forward in promoting healthy and stable family relationships, while also providing important protections for victims of domestic violence. With these changes now in effect, parents and families in the state can expect a more balanced and child-focused approach to custody and visitation arrangements.