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SB 1720

equal parenting time; best interests

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Shawnna Bolick

SB 1720 presumes equal parenting time serves children's best interests in Arizona custody cases unless proven otherwise, shifting default from case-by-case judgment.

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Bill Summary · SB 1720

Legislative bill overview

SB 1720 modifies Arizona's family law standards to presume that equal parenting time (50/50 custody) serves the best interests of children in divorce and custody proceedings. The bill would shift the default custody arrangement from case-by-case judicial determination to a statutory presumption favoring equal parental involvement unless evidence demonstrates otherwise.

Why is this important

This legislation would fundamentally change how Arizona family courts approach custody decisions, potentially affecting thousands of families annually. It reflects a broader policy shift toward presuming both parents have equal roles in child-rearing, which carries significant implications for how judges weigh parental fitness, work schedules, and child welfare factors in contested custody cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Flexibility concerns: Critics argue a presumption for equal time may not account for cases involving domestic violence, parental substance abuse, mental health issues, or significant geographic distance between parents that make 50/50 arrangements impractical or unsafe
  • Implementation challenges: Family courts would need to redefine how they evaluate "best interests" and determine when evidence sufficiently rebuts the equal-time presumption, potentially creating inconsistent application across jurisdictions
  • Primary caregiver impact: The presumption could disadvantage custodial parents (often mothers historically) who reduced work hours or structured their lives around primary caregiving, potentially penalizing that sacrifice in custody negotiations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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