New Hampshire Child Support Law

Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act (RSA 461-A) 

The Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act, effective October 1, 2005, is one of the most sweeping changes to New Hampshire family law in many years. The new law, and the provisions described below, encourage parents to work together in the best interests of their children.

The Family Division welcomes feedback from parents, attorneys, and other interested parties about forms, procedures, and guidelines for implementation of the new law.

FACTS ABOUT THE NEW LAW

The Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act (RSA 461-A) applies to all new and existing divorce and custody cases. The law requires parents create a "parenting plan" and file it with the court. If the parents cannot agree on a plan, the court is authorized to draw up a parenting plan for the family.
     
Parents can use the court's outline, or they can develop their own plan but they must follow the same, step by step order of provisions laid out in the court plan.     
     
The new law also authorizes the court to appoint a mediator in parenting disputes, even when the parties don't agree with that action. The cost of the court appointed mediator would be paid by the parties.