Who Can Pursue Visitation Rights for a Child?

Child custody can be a very emotional issue, and not just for the parents of the child. People often believe that only the legal parents of a child may pursue visitation and/or custody, but that isn’t true!

At the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC.,  we are experienced family law litigation attorneys, and happy to help you enforce your visitation rights.

Which Other Individuals May Be Able to Pursue Custody?

Oftentimes, extended family members may be deeply involved in raising a child, such as an aunt or uncle who takes in the child when the parent is deployed overseas, or a grandparent who steps in when the parent is incarcerated. Stepparents and long-term romantic partners of a parent, even those who have not adopted the child, may also form lasting and loving relationships that persist even when the romantic relationship with the parent is over. These individuals may all have a case for establishing legal custody and visitation rights with the child.

If you are not the legal parent of a child, in order to pursue custody you must prove that you are a de facto parent of the child.

What is a De Facto Parent?

A de facto parent is, simply put, a person who has acted in the role of a parent for a child. In Maryland, in order to be considered a de facto parent, you must prove the following:

  • That the biological or adoptive parent(s) consented to, and fostered, the formation and establishment of your parent-like relationship with the child;
  • That you and the child lived together in the same household;
  • That you assumed obligations of parenthood by taking significant responsibility for the child’s care, education, and development, including contributing towards the child’s support, without expectation of financial compensation; and
  • That you have been in a parental role for a length of time sufficient to have established a bonded, dependent relationship with the child.

 E.N. v. T.R., 474 Md. 346 (2021); Conover v. Conover, 450 Md. 51 (2016).

What does this mean?

It means that you must show evidence to the Court that you lived with the child and stepped into a parental role for them, with the consent of the child’s legal parent(s). You must also have lived with/bonded with the child for a significant amount of time—a summer trip or a few weekends spent at your house are almost certainly not sufficient. But if you have lived with the child for months or years and been an active participant in raising them, you may be considered a de facto parent.

Third Party Custody

Even if you don’t meet the criteria for a de facto parent, you may be able to establish custody and visitation rights in certain circumstances. If you are not a parent or de facto parent, you are likely a third party—and the Court would normally prioritize the legal parents’ wishes over those of a third party. However, if you are able to prove that either the legal parents are unfit or that exceptional circumstances exist, you may be able to obtain custody and/or visitation of the child. 

What Are My Next Steps?

If you are interested in pursuing custody or visitation of a child, you should consult with a licensed Maryland family law attorney so that you can understand your options, as well as the potential costs and time frame. Please contact the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC on 443.352.3201 or 410.986.0088 in order to schedule a consultation today.

Why Working with an Experienced Immigration Attorney Is So Important in 2025

experienced immigration attorney

Immigration law is constantly evolving, and 2025 is shaping up to be another year of unprecedented change. From policy adjustments to new regulations, immigrants in Maryland and across the United States face an increasingly complex legal system. For individuals and families navigating visa applications, green card petitions, asylum claims, or deportation defense, the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney has never been more valuable.

(more…)

Motorcycle Accidents: The Most Common Injuries

motorcycle accidents

Many motorcycle riders love the sense of freedom that riding a bike offers. However, that freedom comes with an increased risk of injury. Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles provide little protection in the event of a crash, which means riders are more vulnerable to severe injuries. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. Even if you survive the collision, the injuries could change your life forever. Understanding the common injuries that result from motorcycle accidents is essential for both prevention and legal recovery.

(more…)

What Evidence Can Be Used in Maryland Car Accident Cases?

Maryland car accident cases

When you’ve been hurt and want to receive compensation from someone else through a personal injury case, gathering the right evidence is critical to present the strongest case possible. The better the quality and quantity of evidence that you can present, the better odds you have of winning in Maryland car accident cases. Because the burden of proof falls on the injured party, you can’t afford to rush through evidence collection. What types of evidence are often used in car accident cases, and why are they important?

(more…)

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Your USCIS Interview

mistakes to avoid during your USCIS interview

While it might seem like just another step in your journey, the USCIS interview is one of the most important parts of the immigration process, whether you’re applying for a green card or naturalization. The outcome of this interview can determine whether or not your application is approved and, in some cases, even denied. Because the interview is so important, you must prepare ahead of time and know what mistakes to avoid during your USCIS interview.

(more…)

Understanding Aggravating Factors in a DUI Case

aggravating factors in a DUI case

Maryland takes driving under the influence (DUI) very seriously, which is why they have such strict penalties in place. However, all DUI charges are not treated the same. In some cases, certain circumstances known as aggravating factors can lead to increased penalties, like longer jail time and higher fines. If you or a loved one is facing charges, understanding aggravating factors in a DUI case can help you prepare and understand why having experienced legal representation is critical.

(more…)

The Role of Biometrics in the Immigration Process

biometrics in the immigration process

When applying for a visa, green card, or citizenship in the United States, one critical step that applicants don’t fully understand is the biometrics appointment. Though it may seem like a routine fingerprinting session, biometrics in the immigration process play a far more significant role. Biometric checks are used for identity verification, background screening, and maintaining national security. If you’re navigating the immigration process, it’s important to understand what biometrics are and what will happen during your appointment.

(more…)

The Rise of Reckless Driving in Maryland and How to Protect Yourself

Over the past several years, reckless driving in Maryland has become a growing public safety concern. From excessive speeding to aggressive tailgating and running red lights, reckless driving behaviors are putting more people at risk on Maryland’s roads. Despite public awareness campaigns and increased law enforcement efforts, the number of accidents and fatalities linked to reckless driving in Maryland continues to rise.

(more…)

Immigration and Employment Rights: What Are Your Rights as an Immigrant Worker?

If you’re an immigrant worker in Maryland, understanding your employment rights is essential to protecting yourself in the workplace. Whether you’re here on a temporary visa or have permanent residency, you still have legal protections under federal and state law. Unfortunately, many immigrant workers are unaware of their rights or fear retaliation if they speak up. At our Maryland immigration law firm, we believe every immigrant worker deserves to work in a safe, fair, and lawful environment. What are your rights?

(more…)

Slip and Fall Accidents in Maryland: Establishing Liability and Pursuing Damages

slip and fall accidents in Maryland

Slip and fall accidents in Maryland make up some of the most common types of personal injury claims. Whether you trip on an uneven sidewalk, slip on a wet floor in a grocery store, or fall due to poor lighting in a parking lot, these accidents can lead to serious injuries and unexpected medical expenses. Understanding how liability works and what steps you should take to pursue damages is critical in the aftermath of your slip and fall accident.

(more…)

Contact Us

Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC.
  • Address: 90 Painters Mill Road Suite 201 Owings Mills, Maryland 21117
  • Phone: (443) 352-3201

  • Email: info@elawrencelaw.com

Follow Us