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View Full Version : Step parent rights in Indiana?


imlost2011
Jul 15, 2011, 10:04 PM
My wife and I split up about 9 months ago. We were together for 10 years. I helped raise my wife's daughter since she was 4, she is 14 now. Her bio father maybe saw her 4 times a month. According to step daughter it was less because most the time bio dad would have his parents watch her. Because of our marital problems step daughter decided she wanted to stay with bio dad to get away from all the arguing. Bio dad now has legal custody of daughter and now I am unable to see step daughter. For 10 years she was my daughter and now nothing. He claims he has no problem with me but every time I ask to see her there is always an excuse why I can't. She also has 2 brothers that live with me that she also can't see. Onee being 18 and the other 2 years of age. I know he is morally wrong what about legally?

AK lawyer
Jul 16, 2011, 05:09 AM
Sorry, but step-parents have no legal rights with respect to their step-children.

ScottGem
Jul 16, 2011, 05:17 AM
I agree as a step parent, you have no legal rights. On the other hand she should be allowed to see her brothers. Have you talked with her at all? Has she expressed a desire to see either you or her brothers?

If so, I would check with a local lawyer. Lawyers can get creative and one who knows the local courts and children's services agency may be able to suggest something.

Fr_Chuck
Jul 16, 2011, 08:31 AM
You may be able to file in court to allow her brothers to visit

imlost2011
Jul 16, 2011, 06:58 PM
I have had very little contact with her. When I call she does not say more than one word answers. I feel her calls are being monitored. I have tried texting her and it is like jeckell and hyde respond. Again I feel someone else may be responding to my text on occasion. I did not mention earlier but her bio dad has live in girlfriend that has been rescently arrested convicted and sentenced for selling prescription drugs and is on 3 years probation.

ScottGem
Jul 17, 2011, 06:00 AM
The problem here is you have no legal standing. So you can't apply for custody on the grounds of the girl friend's issues. The only thing you can do is report it the local Children's services agency.