A2963

Establishes presumption of joint legal and physical custody in child custody matters.

This bill establishes a presumption of joint legal and equal or approximately equal physical custody in child custody matters in New Jersey. The court will presume that joint custody is in the best interests of the child, with the child residing an equal or approximately equal amount of time with each parent. The parents will share decision-making authority regarding the child's health, education, and general welfare. This presumption can be rebutted if a parent provides clear and convincing evidence that joint custody is harmful to the child.