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On March 1, 2026, Rhode Island made headlines in the realm of family law as sweeping reforms were enacted to better protect children and families throughout the state. The reforms, which were signed into law by Governor Rebecca Miller, aim to address longstanding issues within the family court system and ensure that the best interests of children are at the forefront of all decisions made by the courts.One of the key components of the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption of shared custody in divorce cases. Under this new law, judges will be required to consider shared custody arrangements as the default option unless there is clear evidence that such an arrangement would not be in the best interests of the child. This marks a significant departure from previous practices, where one parent was often awarded primary custody with limited visitation rights for the other parent.Additionally, the reforms also include provisions for increased protections for victims of domestic violence. Judges will now be required to consider any history of domestic violence when making custody decisions, and may order supervised visitation or other safeguards to ensure the safety of children and parents involved in these cases. This change comes in response to concerns about the high rates of domestic violence in the state and the need to prioritize the safety of vulnerable family members.Furthermore, the new legislation also includes provisions for the establishment of a family court ombudsman program. This program will provide a dedicated resource for families navigating the court system, offering guidance, support, and information on their rights and responsibilities. This initiative is aimed at improving transparency and accessibility within the family court system, ensuring that all parties have the resources they need to navigate the legal process effectively.Overall, these reforms represent a significant step forward in protecting the rights and well-being of children and families in Rhode Island. By prioritizing shared custody arrangements, increasing protections for victims of domestic violence, and providing additional support for families navigating the court system, the state is taking proactive measures to ensure that the best interests of children are always the top priority.Governor Miller expressed her enthusiasm for the new legislation, stating that "these reforms will help to create a more equitable and just family court system in Rhode Island, where the needs of children and families are the focus of every decision."