This bill seeks to improve the judicial process in child custody cases by requiring judges and court personnel to undergo training on domestic and child abuse, starting January 1, 2026. It mandates ongoing, evidence-based training to help court officials effectively identify and address domestic violence issues. The bill also expands the criteria for child custody determinations by explicitly including evidence of child or domestic abuse as a significant factor. Additionally, it restricts courts from ordering reunification treatment or professional evaluations in contested custody cases involving abuse unless the evaluator has the necessary qualifications and experience.

Moreover, the legislation introduces new definitions and clarifications related to custody and parenting arrangements. It defines "joint custody," "parent," "parenting plan," "period of responsibility," "reunification treatment," "sole custody," and "visitation," while deleting previous definitions that have been replaced by these new terms. The bill emphasizes the protection of children and prioritizes their best interests in custody decisions, particularly in cases where abuse is alleged.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-3A-2, 40-4-9.1