Tag Archive for: psychological parent

Can An Uncle or Aunt Be Legally Responsible to Support a Child?

uncle and aunt custody and support issuesHere in New Jersey, there is a legal theory where a person could be seen as a child’s parent, even if they are not the biological or the adoptive parent of that child. Under that theory, called the “psychological parent,” a person is seen to have stepped into the shoes of a biological parent by being a supportive force and influence in a child’s life either financially, emotionally, or both. Step-parents often find themselves becoming psychological parents. But what if you are an aunt or uncle? Could you ever be seen to be the psychological parent of your niece of nephew? Read more

Complex Child Custody: How Is “Tri-Custody” Awarded?

Can a child ever have three legal parents? Yes! As modern family configurations continue to evolve and shift, a growing number of courts are awarding “tri-custody,” or shared legal and physical custody of a child split three ways. What circumstances can trigger a tri-parenting arrangement? Key recent court rulings outline what factors determine whether tri-custody is in a child’s best interests. Read more

Chris Rock Divorce: Psychological Parent Theory in New Jersey

Chris Rock

Image copyright Arp, Depositphoto.com

Does Chris Rock owe child support for a child from South Africa he and his now ex-wife welcomed into their family while they were married, but never adopted? Read more

What Is “Tri-Parenting”?

LGBT child custody concernsAfter the recent decision in the New Jersey custody case, D.G. vs. K.S., the new term “tri-parenting” has been getting a lot of buzz. What does tri-parenting entail? Let’s take a look. Read more

Kids And Divorce: Are You A Psychological Parent?

Are you a psychological parent?There is an interesting theory in New Jersey family law—that of the psychological parent. In today’s world, there are all different types of families. The “blended” family is becoming more and more common since the days of The Brady Bunch. Many moms and dads remarry, creating stepparents and stepchildren; half siblings and stepsiblings. Same-sex couples have children, where one of the couple is the biological parent and the other is not.

When a third person, not the biological mom and dad, takes an active role in the life of a child, he or she can become what is known as a “psychological parent.” Does this describe you? Read more