An Act relative to determining the best interest of children in probate and family court

This bill updates Massachusetts law to clarify how courts determine the best interests of children in family and probate cases. It introduces specific definitions for shared and sole decision-making and residential responsibilities, requiring parents to submit a detailed parenting plan that outlines schedules and dispute resolution methods. The legislation establishes that parents generally have equal rights unless misconduct is present, while also allowing courts to order temporary sole decision-making if shared arrangements are not in the child's best interest. Additionally, the bill mandates written findings from judges when they order shared responsibilities despite existing abuse prevention or protective orders.