New York may soon implement a significant change in how its courts handle custody disputes when a child's safety is at risk. Kyra's Law, a bill that passed both chambers of the State Legislature in early June 2026, now awaits Governor Kathy Hochul's signature. The legislation would mandate that family and supreme court judges treat credible claims of domestic violence or child abuse as a threshold safety question, requiring them to weigh these allegations before considering other factors in custody decisions. It also restricts the use of certain disputed psychological theories that have historically been used to discredit parents raising abuse concerns.
The law is named after Kyra Franchetti, a 2-year-old killed by her father during a court-ordered unsupervised visit in 2016. Her mother, Jacqueline Franchetti, advocated for nearly a decade to bring about this reform. If signed, New York would join a small group of states with similar safety-first custody laws. Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to decide on the bill.
For parents involved in custody battles, this proposed change could significantly alter legal strategy. If Kyra's Law takes effect, evidence such as police reports, medical records, text messages, photos, and orders of protection may become central to an initial safety review. Attorneys, like those at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, emphasize the importance of gathering and organizing such proof early. They also defend against false accusations aimed at gaining leverage in court. Families dealing with abuse inside a custody case often need to act quickly to protect their children and rights.
Regardless of the bill's outcome, the fundamentals of a strong custody case remain unchanged. New York courts decide based on the best interests of the child standard, evaluating each parent's stability, the child's needs, and the home environment. Preparation is key, involving clear records, a realistic parenting plan, and a focus on the child rather than parental conflict. When parents cannot agree, child custody and visitation issues often end up before a judge, where presentation matters.
The implications of Kyra's Law extend beyond individual cases. It signals a broader shift toward prioritizing safety in custody proceedings, potentially setting a precedent for other states. For business leaders and technology professionals, this underscores the growing intersection of legal reform and family dynamics, especially as AI and digital evidence play larger roles in courtrooms. Companies involved in legal tech or family services should monitor how such laws evolve, as they may drive demand for tools that help document and present evidence securely.
As the governor considers the bill, parents and legal experts alike are watching closely. The outcome could redefine how New York courts balance safety and parental rights, with lasting effects on families and the legal landscape.
