In a historic move, Ohio Governor Amy Thompson signed into law today a series of legislative updates aimed at bolstering family law protections for parents and children across the state. The new policies, which were passed by the Ohio State Legislature earlier this month, represent a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to modernize and improve the family court system in Ohio.One of the key changes included in the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption in favor of shared parenting in custody cases. This means that judges will now be required to start from the assumption that both parents should have equal time with their children following a divorce or separation, unless evidence is presented to show that such an arrangement would not be in the best interests of the child.Additionally, the new laws aim to streamline the process for obtaining protective orders in cases of domestic violence or abuse. Under the updated guidelines, victims will have faster access to the courts and increased resources to help them navigate the legal system and receive the protection they need.Furthermore, the reforms also seek to address the issue of parental alienation, a situation in which one parent may attempt to manipulate or undermine the relationship between a child and the other parent. To combat this harmful behavior, the new laws introduce measures to help identify and address instances of parental alienation in family court cases.Overall, the new legislation represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the rights and well-being of parents and children are protected and prioritized in Ohio's family court system. Governor Thompson emphasized the importance of these changes, stating that "every child deserves to have a meaningful relationship with both of their parents, and these laws will help ensure that this principle is upheld in courts across the state."The Ohio State Bar Association has welcomed the new developments, with President Sarah Johnson praising the reforms as long-overdue and crucial for promoting fairness and justice in family law cases. The changes are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and are expected to have a positive impact on families throughout Ohio for years to come.