KANSAS CITY, Missouri (KCTV) — Missouri is seeking a 50/50 custody law as new laws require judges to begin each custody case with the assumption that equal parenting time is in the child’s best interests.
The move has sparked alarm among supporters of domestic violence.
“When we see something that’s 50/50, it can make us think, because sometimes a caregiver is safer for the child,” said Rachel Hodgson, Newhouse’s chief marketing officer. “And we want to make sure they’re with the parents they’re supposed to be with. So whenever there is a possible power shift between a perpetrator and a survivor and children are involved, we will be concerned.”
The bill passed in the closing hours of the Missouri legislative session on Tuesday.
“Many of us in the legal community are surprised that this was signed in the final hours of the session,” said family attorney Kelli Gilmore.
With Gov. Mike Parson signing it, Missouri would be one of the first states to introduce 50/50 split parental leave as the standard in custody cases.
Under the new law, a parent could rebut the presumption by presenting evidence that a 50/50 arrangement is not in the best interests of the child.
Under current law, judges decide custody cases by considering the best interests of the child.
After years of opposing the change, family law advocates worked with lawmakers to draft legislation. However, what was worked on is not what was included.
The bill is currently on Governor Parson’s desk. Some legal experts assume that the signing could take place as early as Thursday.
If you are in a situation of domestic violence and are concerned about what this could mean for your custody case, Newhouse is an excellent resource. You can learn more by clicking here.
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