PSYCHOLOGICAL PARENTS
Non Biological Parent Custody Rights in Denver
Denver Psychological Parent Attorney
The legislature in Colorado recognizes that children often form strong bonds and attachments to adults who may not be their biological parents. In some circumstances, granting custody or allowing frequent visits to a non-biological parent may be best for a child’s emotional and physical well-being. Such an adult may be a psychological parent for the child.
Assisting Denver’s Non Biological and Psychological Parents in Gaining Child Rights
If you are the non-biological parent of a child, the Denver law firm of Littman Family Law may be able to help you obtain certain rights, but this can be a difficult and complex process. It requires skilled and diligent representation to navigate the legal system and secure the recognition necessary for your role in the child’s life. As a non-biological parent, establishing these rights is essential, especially when you’ve played a significant role in the child’s upbringing and care.
Psychological parents, those who have formed a strong emotional bond with a child despite not being their biological parent, often seek legal recognition for the role they’ve played. These bonds are formed when individuals, such as stepparents or close family friends, have actively participated in raising and nurturing the child. In some cases, psychological parents, like grandparents, may seek legal recognition to maintain an ongoing relationship with the child, especially in situations where the biological parents are unable to care for the child.
Related: Can Grandparents be Awarded Custody of Grandchildren?
Family building is a broad concept, and Littman Family Law recognizes the importance of protecting these essential relationships. Whether you’re a grandparent, stepparent, or another psychological parent, this firm can guide you through the legal complexities of securing your parental rights, helping ensure that your relationship with the child remains intact despite legal challenges.
Colorado courts will sometimes allow a non-biological parent who has regularly cared for a child for a period of six months or more to establish parental rights and responsibilities. In some circumstances, a determination may be made that a stepparent or other long-term caregiver has become a “psychological parent” and may have certain rights and responsibilities for a child. While the threshold question is whether the child has been in the care of the non-biological parent for a period of six months or more, the court will then consider a series of other factors to determine whether granting custody or visits to a non-parent is in the best interest of the child.
At Littman Family Law, we have assisted non biological parents obtain legal rights, and we will help you with yours. Call us today at 303-832-4200 or send us an email. We serve clients throughout the Denver metro, eastern plains, and mountain communities within 100 miles of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Colorado, non-biological parents, such as step-parents or psychological parents, can gain custody rights under certain conditions. The state’s legal system recognizes the importance of a child’s relationship with non-biological caregivers, especially when they have formed a significant emotional bond and played a substantial role in the child’s life. To seek custody or visitation rights, non-biological parents must demonstrate that it is in the child’s best interest for them to continue being involved in the child’s upbringing.
This process often involves proving that the non-biological parent has been a consistent caregiver and that removing them from the child’s life would be detrimental to the child’s well-being. Legal proceedings may include presenting evidence of the relationship and any potential negative impacts on the child if the relationship is severed. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney can provide guidance and help navigate the complexities of establishing custody rights for non-biological parents in Colorado.
In Denver, non-biological parents have several legal options in custody disputes, including establishing themselves as psychological parents, seeking third-party custody, and applying for legal guardianship. Psychological parents must demonstrate a significant parental relationship and that continuing this relationship is in the child’s best interest. Third-party custody can be pursued if both biological parents are unfit, unwilling, or unable to care for the child.
Legal guardianship grants the non-biological parent the authority to make decisions for the child, providing stability. Adoption is another option, permanently transferring parental rights if the biological parents consent or their rights are terminated. The court always prioritizes the child’s best interests, and consulting with a family law attorney is crucial for navigating these legal options. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help navigate these complex legal processes.
Yes, a non-biological parent can be considered a legal guardian in Colorado. Legal guardianship grants an individual the authority to make decisions and care for a child, similar to the responsibilities of a parent. Non-biological parents can apply for legal guardianship if it is in the child’s best interest, especially in situations where the biological parents are unable or unwilling to care for the child. This status can provide stability and legal recognition of the non-biological parent’s role in the child’s life. The court will assess the circumstances and prioritize the child’s well-being when deciding on guardianship.
A Denver attorney can assist in securing psychological parent custody rights by providing legal expertise and representation throughout the custody process. They can help gather evidence to demonstrate the significant relationship between the non-biological parent and the child, emphasizing the best interests of the child in maintaining this relationship. The attorney can prepare and file necessary legal documents, advocate in court, and negotiate with the other party to reach a favorable custody agreement. Additionally, they can navigate the complexities of Colorado family law, ensuring that all legal procedures are followed correctly. Their experience and knowledge can be crucial in presenting a compelling case for the psychological parent to obtain custody rights. For more information or to discuss your case, contact us today.
Additional Information in Colorado
Littman Family Law and Mediation Services
1772 Emerson Street
Denver, CO 80218
Phone: 303-832-4200
Fax: 303-832-9322
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