On February 21, 2026, Wisconsin residents were met with significant changes to the state's family law regulations. The updates predominantly focused on alterations to custody agreements and alimony laws, aiming to provide more clarity and fairness in family court cases.One of the most notable adjustments to Wisconsin's family law pertained to custody arrangements. The new legislation introduced a presumption of shared custody, encouraging parents to have equal, or close to equal, parenting time with their children. This change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of both parents in a child's life and aims to minimize the potential for disputes and prolonged legal battles over custody.In addition to the changes in custody laws, modifications were made to the state's alimony regulations. The updates aimed to create more consistency and predictability in determining spousal support payments. Under the new laws, the duration and amount of alimony are now calculated based on a standardized formula that takes into account factors such as the length of the marriage, each party's income, and the division of assets.These changes were met with mixed reactions from Wisconsin residents. Some praised the new laws for providing clearer guidelines and promoting fairness in family court cases. Others, however, expressed concerns about the potential impact on individuals who may be disadvantaged by the standardized formula, such as stay-at-home parents or those with lower incomes.Overall, the updates to Wisconsin's family law system represent a significant shift towards promoting equity and efficiency in resolving family disputes. While the changes may require adjustments for some individuals, they are ultimately aimed at creating a more equitable and streamlined process for families navigating the complexities of divorce and custody battles.