Illinois law lets courts weigh pets’ welfare in custody disputes

Illinois courts will soon have broader authority to consider what is best for a pet when resolving ownership disputes between separating couples under a new law inspired by a senior dog whose custody battle drew attention to gaps in state law. The Companion Animal Custody Equity Act is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2027, and allows judges to evaluate factors tied to an animal’s well-being when determining possession of a companion animal, People reported.