Legal Question in Family Law in North Carolina

Step parent rights

I just wanted to know what step parent rights were in North Carolina. My husgbnad's son has came to our home with bruises and burns from playing with sparklers. He has told us that his stepfather is the only one that spanks him in his home. He is 7 years old. I just wanted to know if step parents had the same disciplinary rights that biological parents do. My stepson's stepfather is the main supervision that this child has and he has been injuried with him around. Thank you.


Asked on 5/10/01, 1:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Arlaine Rockey Arlaine Rockey, Experienced Trial Attorney & Mediator

Re: Step parent rights / Child Abuse

Unless there is a court order giving them parental rights, step parents in NC have no rights. It sounds like this child is in danger. You need to report it to the Department of Social Services so they can investigate it. You can report it anonymously, but we all have a duty under state law to report suspected child abuse or neglect to DSS.

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Answered on 6/27/01, 10:59 pm


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