Kyra’s Law

Kyra’s Law (NYS Bill S5998/A6194) is a proposed New York legislation aimed at reforming family courts to prioritize child safety in custody cases. It mandates that courts prioritize children’s safety, requires judicial training on abuse, and ensures risks are addressed before awarding custody, inspired by 2-year-old Kyra Franchetti’s 2016 murder.

Key Components of Kyra’s Law

• Safety First: Requires courts to prioritize a child’s safety, life, and well-being over other considerations in custody and visitation proceedings.
• Mandatory Training: Mandates comprehensive training for judges and court referees on domestic violence, child abuse, and child-sex abuse.
• Prompt Risk Assessment: Requires courts to promptly hold hearings and evaluate evidence of domestic violence, police reports, and other risk factors before issuing temporary or final custody orders.
• Limitations on “Alienation”: Limits the admissibility of “parental alienation” claims (which often discredit allegations of abuse).

Background and Advocacy

The bill is named after 2-year-old Kyra Franchetti, who was murdered by her father during a court-ordered, unsupervised visit in 2016.