MA H2012

Replaces terminology throughout Massachusetts family law, substituting "custody" with "parental responsibility" (decision-making and residential) and "visitation" with "parenting time"

Establishes that every child has the right to a safe, healthy, and meaningful relationship with both parents, with courts guided by the child's best interest in determining parental responsibilities

Requires parenting plans in all divorce and custody orders, detailing decision-making responsibilities, residential schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation, communication protocols, and dispute resolution methods

Defines "shared residential responsibility" as each parent having at least one-third of parenting time, though explicitly states no presumption that children must spend minimum time with either parent

Specifies 16 factors courts must consider when determining parental responsibilities, including abuse history, substance abuse, parental cooperation, child's wishes, and each parent's caregiving ability