AZ HB2696

Expands the definition of domestic violence in section 13-3601 to include stalking and harassment, and requires peace officers to inform victims in writing of protective order options, emergency services numbers, and domestic violence resources including websites, telephone numbers, and addresses.

Amends section 25-403.03 to prohibit joint legal decision-making if significant domestic violence exists, adds stalking and harassment to factors courts must consider, and requires courts to state specific reasons why custody decisions are in the child's best interests.

Establishes a rebuttable presumption that awarding sole or joint legal decision-making to a parent who committed domestic violence is contrary to the child's best interests, with specific criteria for the parent to overcome this presumption.

Adds new requirements to section 25-403.08 for courts to make specific findings on financial resources in contested fee hearings, specify payment dates and methods, and hold evidentiary hearings promptly when a party shows insufficient resources.

Modifies section 25-404 to require contested temporary legal decision-making hearings be held as soon as practicably possible and mandates courts hear resources and fees motions first to allow adequate preparation for custody hearings.