In a significant development in Vermont family law, changes in child custody and support guidelines were implemented on July 9, 2025, impacting families across the state. The new guidelines aim to ensure the best interests of the child are prioritized in custody decisions and to provide clearer guidelines for child support payments.One of the key changes in the updated guidelines is the emphasis on shared parenting arrangements, where both parents are encouraged to have equal involvement in the upbringing of their children. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of both parents in a child's life and aims to foster better relationships between children and both parents.Additionally, the updated guidelines also provide more clarity on how child support payments are calculated. The new guidelines take into account both parents' income, expenses, and parenting time to determine a fair and equitable amount for child support. This is seen as a more transparent and fair approach, ensuring that children receive the financial support they need to thrive.Speaking about the changes, Vermont Family Court Judge Jessica Carter commented, "These updates to the family law guidelines are a positive step forward in ensuring that the needs of children are at the forefront of custody and support decisions. By encouraging shared parenting and providing clearer guidelines for child support, we are working towards creating a more equitable and supportive environment for families in Vermont."The implementation of these new guidelines has been met with a mix of reactions from families in Vermont. Some applaud the focus on shared parenting and clearer guidelines for child support, believing that it will lead to more stable and supportive environments for children. Others express concerns about the potential challenges of implementing shared parenting arrangements and the implications for non-custodial parents.Overall, the changes in Vermont family law mark a significant shift towards prioritizing the well-being and best interests of children in custody and support decisions. It is hoped that these updates will lead to more collaborative co-parenting relationships and ensure that children receive the support they need to thrive.