Children
Same-Sex Couples’ Child Custody Issues
Parental rights are established fairly easily in the case of heterosexual couples, whether or not the couple is married. In the case of same-sex couples, however, establishing parental rights can be much more complicated and challenging. Texas child custody laws may not be applicable to same-sex couples. It is important to work with a skilled attorney who can argue that shared custody is in the child’s best interests.
One way to establish parental rights is for the nonbiological parent to adopt the child. In regular adoptions, parental rights must be forfeited by the natural parent so that his or her child may be adopted. When the nonbiological parent wishes to adopt and co-parent the natural child of his or her partner, it is not necessary for the biological parent to forfeit his or her rights. If the relationship ends, child custody solutions are handled in the same way as they are with heterosexual couples.
Child custody issues can be complicated, especially in the case of same-sex couples, and laws involving same-sex couples are rapidly evolving.
*This article is not a substitute for the advice of a licensed BurnettTurner attorney.
For more personalized information on how to navigate through your toughest family law issues, contact us today. We are confident that we can help you determine the best option for you and your family.
