Family law in California and throughout the United States has historically focused on recognizing and protecting the parental rights of a child’s biological parents. However, in recent years many states have adopted new legislation that aims to recognize stepparents and the value they provide to their stepchildren’s lives. If you are a stepparent in Upland, CA, you may wonder what legal rights you have in regard to child custody and visitation, particularly in the event of a divorce. The reality is that a stepparent has minimal legal rights unless the court deems that continued contact between the stepparent and their stepchild suits the child’s best interests or if the stepparent has legally adopted the child.
If you are a stepparent in Upland, CA and need advice concerning your legal relationship to your stepchild, the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires can help. Attorney Squires and her team have years of experience handling the most challenging family law cases, and we understand how difficult it can be for stepparents facing issues concerning custody, visitation, and adoption. Our firm can provide the legal guidance you need to determine your options as a stepparent in a family law matter. We can also help you determine the best way to secure custody over your stepchild if applicable laws allow it.