Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia

The rights of a step-parent in the Commonwealth (or other jurisdiction) with respect to any particular step-child are likely analogous to the legal status known as "in loco parentis", i.e., in place of a parent, which allows a step-parent to exercise such parental authority over the child as necessitated by the particular circumstances of time and place when the biological or adoptive parent of such child is not available to do so.

You do have some standing. There is a higher standard of proof when third parties seek custody and visitation rights. Last time I handled case involving same sex relationships, case law did not favor such unions when dealing with issues regarding children. Web: www.sherylshanelaw.com. Attorney Sheryl Shane.