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Although the process of divorce can be difficult, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many people go through this process every day, and there are resources available to help you. One important topic to consider after a divorce is visitation rights for stepparents.
In New York, in some cases, stepparents may request visitation rights with their stepchild if they and their situation meet certain criteria. This blog post will provide an overview of the process and what stepparents need to know to request stepchild visitation rights in New York.
Are Stepparents Allowed to Request Visitation Rights in New York?
Although the responsibility of caring for a child legally rests with the parents, in some cases, stepparents have the right to request visitation with their stepchild in New York after a divorce. In addition, in certain situations, a stepparent can also seek visitation rights concurrently with a legal custody order or appointment of guardianship.
The courts in New York take the best interests of a child into consideration when determining any type of visitation arrangement for a stepparent following a divorce. This is because they care deeply about what is best for each child and will do their utmost to ensure that the visitation arrangement is both fair and beneficial.
If a stepparent approaches the court with an intention to seek legal visitation rights to maintain or promote their relationship with their stepchild, the court must still consider all possible factors before reaching a decision. This includes looking at any potential consequences for the safety or welfare of the child and whether allowing visitation will be beneficial to the child.
When stepparents want to establish visitation rights for their stepchild in New York after a divorce, it is important for them to demonstrate that they have been a significant part of the child's life and that granting visitation rights is in the best interest of the child. It is necessary to show what role you have played in supporting, caring for, and nurturing the child before a judge will consider awarding stepparent visitation rights.
Contact Our Experienced Child Custody and Visitation Attorneys in Dutchess County, New York Today
Stepparents who are seeking visitation rights for their stepchildren should contact an experienced family law attorney in their area. An experienced attorney can provide guidance and inform stepparents of their legal rights when it comes to visiting with their stepchildren.
To learn more about stepparent visitation rights in New York, or to speak with our experienced child custody and visitation lawyers at Letterio & Haug, LLP, call us at (845) 203-0997 or reach out to us online today to schedule a confidential consultation.