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SC H5200
Bill
Status
Introduced
2/18/2026
Primary Sponsor
David Martin
Click for details
AI Summary
- Creates a rebuttable presumption that joint physical custody is in the best interest of minor children upon initial custody petitions in South Carolina
- Defines "joint physical custody" as an approximately and reasonably equal division of time between parents, as agreed upon or court-ordered
- Requires courts to make written findings of fact and conclusions of law regarding the child's best interest, unless waived by both parties or resolved by stipulated agreement
- Excludes parents with a history of domestic violence or convictions for assault or criminal sexual conduct from the joint custody presumption, instead presuming joint custody is not in the child's best interest
- Adds new Section 63-15-215 to Article 2, Chapter 15, Title 63 of the South Carolina Code, effective upon Governor approval
Legislative Description
Child Custody
Last Action
Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Guest
2/19/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary2/18/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available