Bill > A03822

This bill enacts the Child Custody Reform Act, which aims to establish uniform statewide standards for resolving child custody disputes through a more collaborative and child-centered approach. The legislation introduces a comprehensive framework for managing custody, parenting, and support disputes by requiring an initial judicial conference to assess whether mediation is appropriate. If deemed suitable, parents will be referred to a mediation information session where a neutral third party helps them communicate and develop a cooperative parenting plan. The bill defines key terms like "custody," "physical custody," and "parenting plan," and establishes that each judicial district must provide mediation services on a sliding fee scale to ensure accessibility. The chief administrator of the courts will be responsible for creating standards, monitoring implementation, and establishing a statewide advisory committee that includes experts in family law and domestic violence. The mediation process is designed to be confidential, voluntary, and focused on the best interests of the child, with specific protocols to screen for situations like domestic violence that may make mediation inappropriate. Ultimately, the bill seeks to encourage parents to resolve their differences collaboratively and minimize the adversarial nature of traditional custody litigation.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3822