The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes related to legal decision-making and parenting time. It introduces new provisions allowing a parent to request a jury trial in cases where a temporary order has been issued, specifically if that parent has been awarded less than 35% parenting time or no joint legal decision-making authority. The bill mandates that such jury trials be scheduled within 120 days of the request and establishes that if this timeline cannot be met, an arbitrator will be appointed to hear the case. Additionally, the bill reorganizes the factors that courts must consider when determining legal decision-making and parenting time, prioritizing issues such as domestic violence and the child's best interests.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing statutes regarding the modification of legal decision-making or parenting time decrees, allowing for earlier motions based on changes in relevant factors affecting the child's well-being. It also stipulates that temporary legal decision-making or parenting time can be awarded based solely on pleadings, rather than requiring a hearing, if there is evidence of potential child abuse. Other changes include the requirement for specific findings by juries in contested cases and the ability for parents to request professional interviews with children during proceedings. Overall, the bill aims to streamline processes and enhance the focus on children's welfare in legal decision-making contexts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 25-403, 25-404, 25-405, 25-407.01, 25-411, 25-403.03, 25-403.07, 13-2907.02