All Family Law FAQ’s | NJ Child Custody FAQ’s
Q) I am the child’s relative (aunt/grandparent/cousin/etc). Can I get custody of the child?
A) Probably not. A court determines who should have custody based on what a judge thinks is in the best interest of the child. There is a very strong presumption that living with one or both parents is in the best interest of the child. Therefore, generally, a court will not award custody to another relative unless the court finds that both parents are “unfit” to take good care of the child. However, a relative may be able to get temporary custody of the child if neither parent is able to take care of the child at that time and neither parent objects.
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