Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Can I be a foster parent to a young friend?

I am in Massachusetts. I know little about foster laws, but bear with me. The father of a fourteen year old child that I am very close to recently was arrested for domestic abuse. Now living without his father, his mom is abusive verbally and the boy tells me that he wants to live with me and my family. The mother does not want the child anymore. What can I have to do and what can she do to get the boy to be in my care?


Asked on 6/20/09, 10:03 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Gabriel Cheong Infinity Law Group

Re: Can I be a foster parent to a young friend?

You can take guardianship of the child by filing a petition for guardianship in your local probate and family court. Since the child is 14 years old, he can consent to appointing you his guardian. Also, since his mother doesn't object, you should have no problems.

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Answered on 6/20/09, 11:54 am

Re: Can I be a foster parent to a young friend?

If you want to become his legal guardian and assuming you are of legal age, you file a petition with the Probate Court in which the boy currently lives. Assuming the mother does not object and DSS does not object; you will be appointed his legal guardian.

DSS places children in foster homes when they remove them from unsafe environments. You need to get qualified by DSS as a foster parent and they have to have taken custody of the child and appoint you as the foster parent.

Good Luck to you the 14 year old.

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Answered on 6/20/09, 3:13 pm


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