HB 1090

Abstract

Provides that a court shall order: (1) joint physical custody of a child unless the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that joint physical custody is not in the child's best interests; and (2) joint legal custody of a child unless the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that joint legal custody is not in the child's best interests. Requires a court that does not order joint physical custody or joint legal custody to issue written findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the order is based. Provides that a parent's knowing false allegation to a court in a child custody proceeding that the other parent abused or neglected the child is: (1) a factor the court shall consider in determining custody of the child; and (2) a ground for modification of a child custody order. Requires the office of judicial administration (office) to annually publish on the office's website statistics regarding the number and proportion of child custody orders issued in the immediately preceding calendar year for: (1) joint physical custody; (2) a physical custody arrangement other than joint physical custody; (3) joint legal custody; and (4) a legal custody arrangement other than joint legal custody.