Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Are there Aunt/Uncle rights ?

We have had our nieces stay with us several times over the past few years. We have seen that they are always infested with head lice (which we treat treat imeadiately), their clothes are too small, they don't have diapers or any items neccesary for staying at someones house. We have bought them everything they need more than once and have tried to talk to their parents. They blow us off , we are scared for these children. What can we do as aunt and uncle? We are to the point where we would take them in to live with us to give them a better life. Thanks


Asked on 6/08/09, 2:47 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles Gallagher Gallagher & Associates Law Firm, P.A.

Re: Are there Aunt/Uncle rights ?

You dont have any legal rights as an aunt or uncle. If you feel the child is being mistreated, you can contact Department of Children & Family Services.

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Answered on 6/08/09, 3:15 pm
William Gwaltney William W. Gwaltney, Attorneys at Law

Re: Are there Aunt/Uncle rights ?

Anyone can file a complaint with DCF regarding what they believe to be unhealthy or dangerous conditions. While you may not have specific rights as an aunt or uncle, if the problem is significant enough you can petition the court to have a guardianship over the children put in place and seek to be appointed guardian.

My office deals with guardianships such as these.

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Answered on 6/08/09, 6:00 pm


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