what are my rights

[pbowen]

I have been step mother and raise  a little boy since he was 2 now he is 11 and myself and the father break up he want to take him from me. have i got any rights to him

[mystress]

I feel very sorry for you,because I can understand that this must be like taking away your "real" child.

When you married the Father,did you legally adopt the child? If not I have a feeling that you don't have much right to him(sorry!) but I feel that a check with your Citizens Advice Bureau might help.

I am sorry not to be more positive!

Good Luck though!

[kilkenny]

You may not have a legal right to your son but given the circumstances you describe he might have a legal right to you. My understanding is that the interests of the child come first and a court might recognise the emotional and developmental needs of your son if he sees you as his "real" mum.

Take some legal advice as this arae of law is a real minefield.