Alabama HB19 creates a rebuttable presumption of joint legal custody and substantial parenting time for both parents in child custody cases.

Alabama HB19 amends child custody laws to establish a rebuttable presumption that joint legal custody and substantial parenting time with both parents are in the best interest of the child, except in cases of domestic or family violence. If parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court will set the plan. The court must make specific findings if it decides against joint custody. The final court order must address division of holidays, communication, and child support. The bill also removes the requirement for parents to submit an agreed-upon parenting plan.

Alabama HB19 creates a rebuttable presumption of joint legal custody and substantial parenting time for both parents in child custody cases.

Alabama HB19 amends child custody laws to establish a rebuttable presumption that joint legal custody and substantial parenting time with both parents are in the best interest of the child, except in cases of domestic or family violence. If parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court will set the plan. The court must make specific findings if it decides against joint custody. The final court order must address division of holidays, communication, and child support. The bill also removes the requirement for parents to submit an agreed-upon parenting plan.