Nebraska High Court Applies Common Law of “In Loco Parentis” to confer standing on former Same-Sex Domestic Partner in Child Custody Dispute. By: Jack'que S.

Link for opinion: http:// www. Fed-soc.org/Nebraska-high-court-applies-common-law-doctrine

The Nebraska High Court held in Latham v. Schwerdtfeger, 282 Neb. 121(2011). On December 14, 2009, Latham filed a complaint for child custody and visitation. On January 7, 2010, Latham file a motion for parenting time. Then on February 12, Schwerdtfeger file a motion for a summary judgment[1].                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

The court overruled the motion from the bench. That the partner Latham was not entitled to child custody and visitation rights, under “the in loco parentis doctrine”[2] stating this did not apply to her because there is “no genuine issue as to a material fact” and Latham is neither the biological nor adoptive parent.

However, Latham alleged under the common-law right to standing based on the doctrine of In Loco Parentis, she was in the loco parentis to (P.S.). The right under this doctrine said “that nonparent where to exercise the rights is in the best interest of the child. In addition, Latham was seeking custody and visitation of a minor child under their jurisprudence applying the doctrine of in loco parentis. Latham establish that she meet all guidelines of jurisprudence and was entitled to custody and visitation as one who stands in loco parentis.

The courts reverse the granting summary judgment in favor of Schwerdtfeger. The court was convinced that Latham has raised genuine issues of material fact. The court realized that they were paying more attention to the end of relationship with both parties instead of the best interest of the child. Latham was involved in everything concerning (P.S.) from the conception all down to all parental duties.

---

[1] A court order ruling that no factual issues remain to be tried and therefor a cause of action or all causes of action.

[2] The legal doctrine under which an individual assumes parental rights, duties, and obligations without going through the formalities of legal adoption.