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Beresford Booth PLLC | S. Scott Burkhalter
Commence a non-parental custody action.
Answer Applies to: Washington
Replied: 10/7/2011
Law Office of Karen A. Clark, L.L.C. | Karen A. Clark
You didn't mention the circumstances under which your niece came to live with you. I suggest that you speak to an attorney about petitioning for guardianship of your niece. Guardianship with grant you the authority to make everyday and emergency decisions, and allow for some stability in the living arrangement.
Answer Applies to: Washington
Replied: 10/5/2011
The Law Office of Kem Eyo, LLC | Kem Eyo
You can attempt to adopt your niece or obtain permanent guardianship over her. I would suggest that you speak with an attorney regarding your choices to see what best suits you and your family.
Answer Applies to: Georgia
Replied: 10/28/2011
Fox Law Firm LLC | Tina Fox
Where are the parents and are the willing to have the niece live with you? If so, the easiest way is for you and your husband to obtain guardianship of the minor.
Answer Applies to: Illinois
Replied: 10/28/2011
Horizons Law Group, LLC | Michelle B. Fitzgerald
The parents could sign a power of attorney giving you authority for schooling and medical. For more permanent stability, you would want to file a guardianship case and be appointed her legal guardian. It would only get complicated if either parent objected.
Answer Applies to: Wisconsin
Replied: 10/5/2011
Ashman Law Office | Glen Edward Ashman
If the parents consent, you can seek guardianship or adoption using a lawyer.
Answer Applies to: Georgia
Replied: 10/4/2011
The Law Office of Cathy R. Cook | Cathy R. Cook
You will have to obtain permanent custody of her. This will require either both parents' agreement or a court order. To obtain a court order without their consent, you will have to prove the parents are unfit.
Answer Applies to: Ohio
Replied: 10/4/2011
Warner Center Law Offices of Donald F. Conviser | Donald F. Conviser
File an action for guardianship of your niece in the Probate Court.
Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 10/4/2011
Neville J. Bedford Attorney at Law | Neville J. Bedford
Discuss options with a family court attorney in your area. Depending on the circumstances, you may be advised to explore adoption or guardianship options.
Answer Applies to: Rhode Island
Replied: 10/4/2011
Patricia C. Van Haren, Attorney at Law | Patricia Van Haren
You may file a Petition for Guardianship over your niece. Since she is 15 years old, the court will take her wishes into consideration. You should contact a family law attorney who is experienced in guardianship matters.
Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 10/4/2011
Glenn E. Tanner | Glenn E. Tanner
In Washington, the parents can grant you the right to care for your niece or you can file a petition for third party custody. If you do the later, you will have to prove both parents are unfit.
Answer Applies to: Washington
Replied: 10/4/2011
John E. Kirchner, Attorney at Law | John Kirchner
The answer to your question starts with examining why the child is living with you now, how long that has been going on, and what her parents agree to or don't agree to. It is possible for you file a court case to be awarded parental responsibilities (what used to be called custody in CO), or to file a court case to be appointed as her legal guardian. You need to consult an attorney who can assess the best choice after evaluation of all the relevant information.
Answer Applies to: Colorado
Replied: 10/4/2011
Swann-Zwiebel Law Firm, LLC | Elizabeth Swann
The answer to this question will require more facts. If she has living parents they can sign a waiver for adoption. If she has living parents who have not been providing for her, then you could file a dependency action through DHR. A dependency petition can be filed with family court. After you file the petition a judge can decide if you should be named the legal custodian. An attorney can help you the many processes that can put you in the right direction to be her legal custodian. Plus some jurisdictions will award you custody through an adoption when the parents have not had contact with the child for over six months.
Answer Applies to: Alabama
Replied: 10/4/2011
Hugo Florido ESQ. | Hugo Florido
If you are a US Citizen, you may consider adopting her before she turns 16! Please consult an Attorney immediately.
Answer Applies to: Florida
Replied: 10/28/2011
Beaulier Law Office | Maury Beaulier
Your question is not a simple one to answer. Third party custody cases are rarely simple and can proceed to a trial if contested by either biological parent. You must consult with experienced legal counsel.
Answer Applies to: Minnesota
Replied: 10/4/2011
Cody and Gonillo, LLP | Christine Gonilla
File an application for guardianship in Probate Court or for Custody in Superior Court.
Answer Applies to: Connecticut
Replied: 10/4/2011
David A. Browde, P.C. | David Browde
The best option is to work out an arrangement with her parents and then file a petition in Family Court to make it legal.
Answer Applies to: New York
Replied: 10/4/2011
The Law Office of Erin Farley | Erin Farley
With these facts, I suggest applying for guardianship.
Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 10/4/2011
Law Office Of Jody A. Miller | Jody A. Miller
You would need to file a petition for custody of your niece. Consult with a lawyer regarding that process and whether you have a viable custody case.
Answer Applies to: Georgia
Replied: 10/4/2011
