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On December 1, 2025, Washington state introduced new family law reforms aimed at providing greater protection for children and victims of domestic violence. The reforms, which were unanimously passed by the state legislature, include a number of significant changes to existing laws governing custody, visitation, and protection orders.One of the key changes introduced by the new reforms is the requirement that courts prioritize the best interests of the child in all custody and visitation decisions. This means that judges will now be required to consider the impact of any history of domestic violence or abuse on both the child and the parent seeking custody. This change is intended to ensure that children are not placed in dangerous or harmful situations and that their well-being is always the top priority.In addition to the changes in custody and visitation laws, the reforms also include new provisions aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence. One such provision is the introduction of a streamlined process for obtaining protection orders against abusers. This new process is designed to make it easier for victims to quickly obtain the legal protection they need to keep themselves and their children safe.Furthermore, the reforms also include provisions for increased enforcement of protection orders, including the use of GPS tracking devices to monitor the movements of abusers who have violated court orders. This is intended to provide an extra layer of protection for victims and to hold abusers accountable for their actions.Overall, the new family law reforms in Washington state represent a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of children and victims of domestic violence. By prioritizing the best interests of the child and providing increased protections for victims, these reforms are expected to have a positive impact on families throughout the state.