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In a groundbreaking move for family law in North Carolina, a series of long-awaited reforms were passed by the state legislature on June 10, 2026. The new legislation, which has been years in the making, aims to modernize and improve the state's approach to issues such as child custody, divorce proceedings, and spousal support.One of the most significant changes introduced by the reforms is the establishment of a presumption of shared custody in child custody cases. This means that judges will now start with the assumption that children are best served by spending roughly equal time with both parents, unless there is clear evidence to the contrary. Proponents of the new law argue that this will help to promote parental involvement and ensure that children maintain strong relationships with both of their parents.In addition to the changes to child custody laws, the reforms also include provisions aimed at streamlining the divorce process in North Carolina. One notable change is the introduction of a new option for couples seeking to dissolve their marriage. Under the new legislation, couples will have the option to pursue a "collaborative divorce," where they work together with trained professionals to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. This is intended to reduce the time and expense associated with traditional litigated divorces, as well as to minimize the emotional impact on all parties involved.Furthermore, the reforms also address the issue of spousal support in North Carolina. The new legislation introduces guidelines for determining the appropriate amount and duration of spousal support payments, taking into account factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and their contributions to the marriage. This is expected to provide greater consistency and predictability in spousal support awards, while also ensuring that those in need receive the support they require.Overall, the reforms represent a significant step forward for family law in North Carolina. By modernizing and improving the state's approach to issues such as child custody, divorce proceedings, and spousal support, the new legislation aims to better serve the needs of families across the state. The reforms are set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and are expected to have a positive impact on countless families for years to come.