NJ A2521

Establishes a rebuttable presumption that joint legal custody and equal or approximately equal physical custody is in the best interests of the child in custody proceedings

Requires children to reside an equal or approximately equal amount of time with each parent, with both parents sharing decision-making authority on major issues including health, education, and general welfare

Places the burden of proof on a parent seeking to rebut the presumption, requiring clear and convincing evidence that joint physical custody would be harmful to the child

Removes "parents' ability to agree, communicate and cooperate in matters relating to the child" as a factor courts must consider when making custody awards

Allows courts to order alternative custody arrangements (sole custody, modified joint custody, or other arrangements) only after the presumption of equal custody has been successfully rebutted