Friday, April 23, 2010

Landmark Custody Case Unfolding in WCCC

Currently in Wayne County Circuit Court, there is a first-of-its-kind case involving a custody battle between former lesbian partners. During their 19 year relationship, the couple had three children through means of artificial insemination. Now, the non-biological parent is seeking joint custody and parenting time after being denied visitation with the children.

On April 16, 2010, the Honorable Kathleen McCarthy ruled that the movant has standing and the matter can proceed to an evidentiary hearing regarding whether the couple had a previous agreement regarding custody. Should the ruling stand following an appeal, it will be the first time that an unmarried partner/non-biological parent has legal standing to obtain joint custody and parenting time in Michigan. No doubt, depending on the outcome, this could have a major impact on the legal rights of gays, lesbians and even unmarried heterosexual couples when it comes to child custody issues.

The hearing is set for July 21. Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking case.

Read the Detroit Free Press article in its entirety here.

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