An Act relative to child-centered family law

This bill amends Massachusetts family law to prioritize children's well-being in custody cases. It replaces "visitation" with "parenting time" and establishes that courts must presume shared decision-making responsibility (both parents involved in major decisions like education and health) unless a court orders otherwise. All custody orders now require a detailed "parenting plan" covering decision-making, where the child lives, and a schedule for parenting time. Courts must consider 16 specific factors - including the child's relationship with each parent, their wishes (if age-appropriate), and any history of abuse - when determining the best interests of the child. The law directly affects parents in divorce or custody cases and the courts handling those cases.