STEPPARENT VISITATION IN FLORIDA

STEPPARENT VISITATION IN FLORIDA

Florida statutes do not recognize or support stepparent visitation. It is unfortunate, but a stepparent will not be granted visitation rights with their step-child should a divorce occur. A stepparent will not have any visitation rights with the step-child should your spouse die. You may be granted visitation rights if the surviving biological parent permits it.

However, if the biological parent of the step-child survives the death of their former spouse, he or she will retain or obtain custody of the step-child and will have the authority to deny any requests for visitation.  The court will not intercede in a custody fight between a biological parent and a stepparent unless the biological parent is deemed unfit.

STEPPARENT ADOPTION

Stepparent adoption will secure the right to custody or visitation upon the death of your spouse or a divorce. As a stepparent who adopted a step-child, you will be considered a legal parent with all the rights that come with that status.  However, to adopt a step-child, the biological parent must give his or her written consent or you must convince the court that you conducted a diligent search for the biological parent and failed to locate him or her.

If you need strong, experienced counsel to represent your interests please feel free to call or e-mail The Fuller Firm, LLC. Kevin A. Fuller will schedule a free phone or videoconference consultation. After a thorough analysis of your case, I will answer your questions and advise you regarding the best way to proceed.