right to jury; domestic relations

HB 2152 adds the right to a jury trial in Arizona divorce and custody cases. It allows either party to request a jury for factual issues like property division, child custody findings (including best interests of the child), or domestic violence allegations, provided the request is filed in writing at least 30 days before trial. The jury’s factual findings on these specific issues become binding on the court, which must incorporate them into final orders for parenting time, child support, or spousal maintenance. This bill directly affects individuals filing for divorce, custody, or parenting time in Arizona family court. The court retains discretion for legal rulings but must follow the jury’s factual determinations on the listed matters.