Establishes a presumption of shared parenting of minor children in matrimonial and family court proceedings

This bill (A 4786) establishes a legal presumption that shared parenting is in the best interests of minor children in family court custody cases. It directly affects parents, courts, and children involved in divorce, separation, or custody disputes by shifting the burden of proof: a parent seeking sole custody must now prove shared parenting would be harmful, rather than the other way around. Key provisions include requiring courts to presume shared parenting unless proven detrimental, mandating parenting plans, and explicitly protecting parents who act in good faith to protect children from abuse or domestic violence. The bill modifies New York's domestic relations law to prioritize frequent contact with both parents while maintaining exceptions for safety concerns.