Family law reform: two new laws adopted

In July 2026 the State Great Khural adopted a revised Family Law and a new Law on Adjudication of Family Cases by Courts. The Family Law had not been substantively changed since 1999; family disputes now also have their own procedural framework. The laws were published in issues No. 28 and No. 32 of the 2026 official gazette “Töriin Medeelel”.

Family Law (revised edition)

• The rights and best interests of the child become the core principle of family relations.
• Couples marrying for the first time will take part in family education training.
• New rules protect children’s rights in divorce proceedings.
• Improved rules on property arising from cohabitation and on marriage contracts.
• Assisted reproduction is now regulated.
• A unified method for setting child support, with stronger liability for those who evade payment.
• Improved guardianship and adoption procedures.

Law on Adjudication of Family Cases by Courts (new)

• Mandatory pre-court mediation for divorce and related disputes (Article 16).
• Closed hearings for divorce, child support, parental rights and adoption cases; live broadcasting is prohibited (Article 13).
• The child’s voice. Children aged 14 and over may file requests and complaints; courts consider the views of children aged 7 and over when setting visitation (Articles 4 and 17).
• Child and family specialist. A court officer studies the family’s circumstances and reports within 21 days (Articles 22 and 25).
• Interim measures. Nine types, such as placing a child temporarily with one parent or restricting disposal of shared property (Article 19).
• Domestic violence. Divorce cases involving domestic violence are handled urgently (Article 17).
• Courts. Family cases are heard at first instance by the Family and Children’s Court in the capital, soum and inter-soum courts, and district courts where the law provides.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Please contact our lawyers about your specific situation.