Step-Parents' Rights Attorney in Vancouver, Washington

At Keystone Law, we understand that families come in all shapes and sizes and that not all parents are biological. De Facto Parentage is most commonly pursued by step-parents, but this also applies to other individuals. De facto parenting refers to individuals who have taken on the role of a parent but do not have a legal relationship with the child.

In determining de facto parenting, a court will consider whether the individual claiming to be a de facto parent has met the following criteria, based on a preponderance of the evidence:

• The individual has lived with the child as a regular member of the child's household for a significant period of time.

• The individual has taken on the responsibility of caring for the child on a consistent basis.

• The individual has taken on the full and permanent responsibilities of parenthood without expecting financial compensation. 

• The individual has held the child out as their own.

• The individual has established a close and dependent relationship with the child that is similar to a parent-child relationship.

• The other parent has supported the formation of this close and dependent relationship. Maintaining the relationship between the individual and the child is in the best interest of the child.

Washington law allows for legal rights to a child for more than two individuals. Therefore, even if both biological/adoptive parents are involved in the child's life, a third individual who meets the Court's criteria can also be granted legal rights as a parent. We offer comprehensive legal services for de facto parents who are seeking to establish their legal rights and responsibilities.