Can unmarried domestic partners become joint guardians of a child?

Q: My domestic partner and I are not married. We want to become the legal guardians for our niece, the daughter of my partner’s biological sister. Can my domestic partner and I both become her guardians even though we are not married?

A: In theory, the short answer is yes. That said, in any guardianship proceeding, both biological parents have a right to be served with the court summons & a right to be heard on the case. Schedule a consult with a Westchester Adoption Attorney for a full assessment.