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On May 17, 2026, Oregon lawmakers passed a series of updates to the state's family law regulations aimed at better protecting children and families in various legal matters. The changes, which will go into effect immediately, address key issues related to child custody, support, and domestic violence.One of the most significant updates is a provision that allows children over the age of 12 to voice their preferences in custody hearings. This change gives older children a say in where they would like to live and with whom, providing them with a greater sense of agency in decisions that directly impact their lives. Additionally, judges will now be required to consider these preferences when making custody determinations, though the final decision remains in the hands of the court.Another important update pertains to child support guidelines. The new regulations streamline the process for calculating child support payments, ensuring that both parents contribute financially to their children's care in a fair and equitable manner. The updates also take into account factors such as income, expenses, and parenting time when determining child support obligations, with the goal of promoting the best interests of the child.In an effort to combat domestic violence and protect vulnerable family members, the updated laws also introduce stricter penalties for those convicted of domestic abuse. Offenders will face harsher consequences, including mandatory counseling and supervision, to ensure the safety and well-being of their victims and any children involved.Overall, these new family law updates in Oregon mark a positive step forward in prioritizing the needs of children and families in legal proceedings. By empowering children to have a voice in custody matters, ensuring fair child support obligations, and cracking down on domestic violence, the state is taking proactive measures to create a safer and more supportive environment for all families.