Statistics show that 1 out of 3 Americans is now or has been a step parent. It is a very common situation in New Jersey as well as other states. Although many people become step parents, they frequently have little understanding of their legal rights, during a marriage to the childrens’ parent and after a divorce from that person as well. Everyone’s situation as a step parent is not the same, by any means, and consulting a family lawyer is advisable to know and understand your legal status in any matter involving your current or past relationship with stepchildren, or your concern regarding a spouse or ex-spouse who is a step parent to your children. Historically, a step parent does not have custody rights during or following a marriage to a child’s parent. If the child’s other parent is deceased…Read More
