When people marry into a “ready-made” family, they often become important to the children of that family. The reputation of step-parents, in general, is unfavorable. However, these unique individuals invest a multitude of love and heart into their new families. If divorce becomes imminent, step-parents may lose what matters the most: Their time and contact with the kids they have come to know and love.
All of our attorneys agree that these situations are tragic in so many different ways. Losing contact is devastating to the step-parent and in most cases to the involved children as well. Courts across the nation try to look out for the best interests of the children of divorce. However, the rights of step-parents (and step-children) may fall by the wayside.
Despite the difficulties step-parents face in the wake of a divorce, we like to encourage them not to give up. If you are serious about maintaining visitation with your step-children, consider talking to a family law attorney about your situation. With patience and dedication, it might be possible to convince a court that continuing the relationship with your step-child is in his or her best interests.
We understand the pain step-families feel when they are torn apart by divorce. Although it is not possible to tell you exactly how your efforts to acquire visitation will turn out, we believe that legal assistance with custody requests can help in these devastating situations. An impartial viewpoint can help you determine exactly what steps will give you the best chance of success.
Continue reviewing our website and our legal blog for more insight into legal matters that affect families.