There is rebuttable presumption that custody with a parent is in the best interests of the child unless proven otherwise by clear and convincing evidence.  In another word, there is a parental presumption of fitness that can only be overcome by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary.  This is also a constitutionally rooted and protected principle. In the District, a third party may file for custody of a minor child – however, the legal standard used – similar to adoption and termination of parental rights – is as stated: by clear and convincing evidence. Thus with the third party
Read More