Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Sibling Custody

My parents were divorced 7 years ago. They both have joint custody of my two younger sisters, ages 13 and 17. They live with my mother, who was diagnosed as a bipolar manic depressive three years ago. Recently she has stopped taking her medicine, and has started hitting and verbally abusing my sisters. I don't want them to live with my dad, as he is also abusive and an alcoholic. Do I have any custodial rights to my younger sisters? They need to get out of that situation, and I would really like to have them. I am currently a biology major in my junior year of college, but would be more than willing to take a break to take care of my sisters now that they need me. Do I have any custodial rights to my sisters?


Asked on 10/06/04, 10:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Phroska L. McAlister PHROSKA LEAKE McALISTER

Re: Sibling Custody

You do not have any "custodial rights" to your sisters.

However, you do need to ask an older family member or responsible and experenced friend, to assist you and your sisters, in: a) trying to get your mother "back on track," in order to prevent the State from taking your sibs from her. And, b) helping you to outline an alternative PLAN, that does not include you attempting to care for your sibs, as their surrogate mom.

You might consider obtaining direction, counseling or services from your school.

Good luck,

Phroska L. McAlister, ESQ

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Answered on 10/07/04, 1:38 pm


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