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The equitable-parent doctrine is a principle in family law that allows a spouse who is not the biological parent of a child born or conceived during the marriage to be considered the child's natural father or mother in a divorce action. This is possible if certain conditions are met:
It is important to note that very few jurisdictions apply this doctrine, and it may also apply to non-spousal partners.
For example, if a married couple adopts a child, and one spouse is not the biological parent, but has helped raise the child and wants to continue to have parental rights after a divorce, the equitable-parent doctrine may apply. The non-biological parent would need to show that they have a parent-child relationship with the child and are willing to pay support.