Going through divorce and trying to get custody of my kids.

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Going through divorce and trying to get custody of my kids.

I have 2 minors with my soon to be ex-
wife. She had a 4 month old when I met
her and then we got married. So I have
three daughters. My oldest step
daughter is already 6 years old. I’ve
supported her financially and I’m her
dad because I raised her. My question
is, can I include her in my custody case
or am I wasting my time even trying?

Asked on November 1, 2018 under Family Law, California

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

As a stepfather, no matter the quality of your relationship in real terms with your stepchild, you have no legal relationship with her or parental rights. While your soon-to-be could voluntarily let her stay with you, she is not part of your custody base because you are not legally one of her parents.


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