Child custody, rebuttable presumption of joint custody, provided; definition of joint physical custody, further provided for; joint custody model parenting plan, required in certain divorce cases; motion for temporary relief as alternative to joint custody plan, provided in certain circumstances; penalties for certain unsupported motions, provided

HB 229 creates a rebuttable presumption that joint custody is in the best interest of the child for all divorce cases, requiring courts to document reasons if they deviate from this presumption. It defines "joint physical custody" as the child spending equal or approximately equal time with both parents and mandates that all divorcing parents submit a parenting plan following a joint custody model - unless one parent files a motion for temporary relief (with penalties for unfounded filings). The bill removes outdated language allowing automatic custody transfer to a father after a child turns seven in abandonment cases and requires courts to expedite valid temporary relief motions. This affects parents navigating custody disputes in Alabama, aiming to standardize custody determinations around child-centered outcomes.