The Rights of Foster Parents & De Facto Parents in Dependency Cases

San Jose Juvenile Dependency Law Attorney

The Padilla Law Firm

Although foster parents, caretakers, and de facto parents do not have all of the same rights as biological parents, they do have some rights. In juvenile dependency law matters involving the children they care for, these rights need to be protected and asserted.

The Padilla Law Firm has been specializing in the unique area of law known as juvenile dependency law for more than 26 years and represents clients in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area and from throughout Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda, Santa Cruz, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin counties in these concerns.

As a part of this practice, they represent foster home parents and de facto parents or caretakers who are involved in dependency law disputes with biological parents or other relatives. In many cases, these children have lived under the care of these people for so long that their caretakers decide to take the legal step of adopting them.

Courts in California recognize and respect the rights of these people—based on their experience and efforts in taking care of these neglected or abused children—to a legal standing in these matters and the right to voice their opinions in court. The courts also recognize their right to adopt these children in some cases.

In any case, it is extremely important to write down everything that is going on by keeping a journal or log of some sort in which all events are documented. Documentation is critical, particularly when consulting a dependency law attorney who will need to know precise details about your case.

If you have questions about your rights as a foster parent, The Padilla Law Firm can provide you with answers. Contact them directly at their San Jose, California, law offices today.