On February 21, 2026, the state of West Virginia announced significant changes to its family law regulations, specifically concerning child custody. The legislature passed a bill that aims to prioritize the best interests of the child in custody decisions and promote co-parenting arrangements.One of the key updates to the family law statutes is the establishment of a rebuttable presumption that joint custody is in the best interest of the child. This means that in most cases, both parents will share custody of their children, with equal time spent in each household. This shift away from the traditional sole custody model is intended to ensure that children have meaningful relationships with both parents following a separation or divorce.Additionally, the new law emphasizes the importance of co-parenting and communication between parents. Courts will now require parents to create a parenting plan outlining how they will share responsibilities and decision-making regarding their children. This plan must be approved by the court before a custody arrangement is finalized.Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions for addressing situations involving domestic violence or substance abuse. In cases where a parent has a history of abusive behavior or addiction issues, the court will take measures to protect the safety and well-being of the child. This may include supervised visitation or the imposition of other protective measures.These changes to West Virginia's family law are intended to modernize the state's approach to child custody and promote the best interests of the child. By prioritizing joint custody arrangements and promoting co-parenting, the new legislation aims to ensure that children have healthy and stable relationships with both of their parents, even in the midst of a family transition.