Non-Parental Custody

Non-parental custody refers to a legal arrangement where someone other than a child's biological or adoptive parents gains the right to care for and make decisions on behalf of the child. This can occur in situations where parents are unable or unfit to provide a stable environment, such as cases involving abuse, neglect, or substance issues. Courts typically consider the child's best interests when determining non-parental custody, which can be granted to relatives, family friends, or guardians. Non-parental custody arrangements can include shared visitation rights to ensure ongoing relationships with the child's parents, when appropriate.