Life can take unexpected turns, leaving you wondering who might care for your child if you cannot. While some states, like Kentucky, prefer biological parents to have custody, other relatives can step in under certain circumstances.
When do relatives get custody?
You can create a formal agreement with a trusted relative outlining their role as custodian. This could be a temporary arrangement during military deployment. It is also a viable arrangement if you are chronically ill and require extensive treatments or are currently recovering from a severe injury. However, for agreements like this to hold weight in court, parties must be sure they are legally valid and enforceable.
Relatives may also get custody through the ‘de facto custodian’ status. This occurs when a relative, other than a parent, takes on the primary responsibility of raising a child for an extended period. If a relative provided care and financial support for at least six months (for a child under the age of 3) or one year (for a child over the age of 3), they may be considered a de facto custodian. This gives them the legal standing to fight for custody in court if necessary.
Sometimes, a relative may also get custody if the court or Child Protection Services determines the parents are unfit to raise a child. This can be due to potential neglect or abuse at home.
Considering the best interests of the child
Kentucky law prioritizes the best interests of the child in all custody matters. If you want to consider having a relative raise your child, you may seek the help of legal professionals to understand the complexities of child custody. The court will consider factors like the child’s relationship with each caregiver, the stability of the home environment, and the ability to provide for the child’s needs emotionally and financially.
