Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania
My 14 year olds best friend was thrown out of his grandparents house two months ago. My husband and I took him in. It took over two weeks for his parents to contact me to see where he was. They have made only two attempts to see him or give him money for his own use. On one of these visits the father beat him. My husband and I would like to keep him with us. He is happy here and gets to see his sister (she still lives with the grandparents) whenever he wants, no one else on either side of the family has stepped up to claim him and they know where he is. I am a total stranger to them and they don't have a problem with him staying here. I feed him, make sure he goes to school. He is adjusting well to my family and is starting to laugh again and be happy. Do I have anyway of legally keeping him. His father is now in jail for hitting his wife. Anf the mother claims that she may be homeless by next week. I don't want to hand this child back to her, to live where? Please help.
2 Answers from Attorneys
You asked about taking in an unrelated child.
This is entirely possible but should be accomplished with the help of an attorney to ensure that the rights and responsibilities are properly transferred and explained. An attorney can best help you decide the best means for accomplishing your goals in the most efficient manner. Most rights can be transferred with a simple guardianship and should prove effective for your needs.
Mazel tov and regards,
Roger
A lawyer can facilitate legalization of the youngster. A guardianship action whould be inititiated and perhaps the parents will consent to same.
The courts may want to take measures to make sure the parents do approve and they will possibly have to appear in court to acknowledge.
The youngster may need some counseling as well. He may feel totally rejected and probably is very confused. There may be insurance consequences and considerations to be dealt with.
What you want to do is a very good thing...there may be many facets to examine to determine if it is in the best interests of your family. I am not trying to discourage your doing a good deed, but know exactly what you are getting into.
I wish you well, and you are welcome to call me
SAUL H SEGAN 215 732 4000
www.saulhsegan.com
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