State Representative Jim Runestad’s bill would make equal custody the default position in divorces. He says, right now, judges have too much discretion and the proof of that is wide disparities between counties in how custody is granted.
Runestad says the current system invites conflict between parents vying to win custody.
“It’s a horrible, horrible system for kids and it’s got to change.”
But critics, including judges and advocates for domestic violence victims, say judges need discretion to make the best arrangements for children.