H1659

Relative to determining the best interest of children in probate and family court

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1659 amends laws to guide courts in determining the best interest of children in family court cases.

Massachusetts H1659 amends Chapter 208 of the General Laws to revise how courts determine the best interest of children in probate and family court. The bill emphasizes shared decision-making responsibility and shared residential responsibility, where parents have mutual involvement in major decisions and the child has periods of residing with each parent. Courts must consider factors such as the child's education, health care, and the ability of parents to provide care.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Apr 22, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Oct 14, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 04/22/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2

Oct 14, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order