Phoenix In Loco Parentis Lawyer

Gillespie, Shields & Durrant: Phoenix Custody Attorney

The legal term “in loco parentis” literally means “in place of a parent” or “instead of a parent”.  It is a term that refers to the legal responsibility of a non-parent to take over responsibilities for a child.  This includes both legal and physical responsibilities.

In Loco Parentis in the Past

Years ago, secondary schools would act in loco parentis while young adults attended Universities.  For example, before the 1960s, Universities would enforce rules, regulations and curfews that students had to abide by.  These rules would allow Universities to run dormitories like households by regulating the personal lives of students, especially female students.  Authority figures at Universities would also be able allowed to act in the best interests of the students, as long as they did not violate the students’ civil liberties.  In the mid-1960s, Universities stopped acting in loco parentis because several schools faced lawsuits.

Custody by a Non-Parent Today

In terms of family law today, in loco parentis usually comes into play when a child’s parents cannot or will not take care of him/her.  They may have abandoned the child or may be unable to provide for the child’s day-to-day needs.  When this happens, one of the child’s other relatives may step in, such as a grandparent.  Or, a non-biological parent may agree to act in loco parentis by adopting the child or by seeking legal guardianship.

Arizona Custody Attorney

Providing Legal Service to Clients in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler & Gilbert

If you have questions pertaining to in loco parentis or custody by a non-parent, you should set up an initial consultation with the trusted custody attorneys at Gillespie, Shields & Durrant. The knowledgeable Phoenix in loco parentis lawyers at Gillespie, Shields & Durrant are ready to provide you with reliable legal counsel.  Contact our Arizona law office today!