Family law: child custody; parenting plan for joint physical custody; provide for. Amends secs. 2, 3, 6a, 7 & 7a of 1970 PA 91 (MCL 722.22 et seq.).

HB 6261 amends Michigan's Child Custody Act to update definitions and clarify procedures for determining a child's best interests in custody cases. The bill explicitly defines terms such as "active duty," "deployment," and "joint legal custody," while also specifying how courts must evaluate factors like domestic violence, parental cooperation, and the child's preferences. A key provision establishes a presumption that joint custody is in a child's best interest when parents are involved in a dispute, requiring courts to explain their reasoning if they deny such an arrangement. Additionally, the legislation clarifies the roles of attorneys and guardians ad litem to ensure children are represented effectively during legal proceedings.