Legal Question in Family Law in California

You were married until your husband died. His death terminated your marriage.

With respect to your children, you had better get appointed guardian of your children if you want to see them. The fact that you waited ten (10) years makes me suspicious of your story.

The courts evaluate custodial placement from a child centered and best interests standpoint. If these children have been with their step mother for over a decade, the courts may determine that its in the children's best interests that they remain in that family environment.