Child- step-father

[rjblackjack]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?tennessee,
yes, me and my wife live in Memphis, and have been married for 2 years. She has a 15yo son from a previous marraige, that has been living in Illinois with his father and grandfather. His father recently died, and his grandfather can no longer care for him. Her son has refused to come live with us in Memphis, will not talk to us, been lieing, stealing and using drus, (out of Control)-- Dcs and other authorities have been contacted and acting on this. My question is, as a step-father, can I be involved in a lawsuit if this boy causes harm to someone else. I realize his mother would be, but I need to know about step-fathers?
Thank You,
Randy

 

[mistoffolees]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?tennessee,
yes, me and my wife live in Memphis, and have been married for 2 years. She has a 15yo son from a previous marraige, that has been living in Illinois with his father and grandfather. His father recently died, and his grandfather can no longer care for him. Her son has refused to come live with us in Memphis, will not talk to us, been lieing, stealing and using drus, (out of Control)-- Dcs and other authorities have been contacted and acting on this. My question is, as a step-father, can I be involved in a lawsuit if this boy causes harm to someone else. I realize his mother would be, but I need to know about step-fathers?
Thank You,
Randy

No, you can not - unless you were to adopt him.

HOWEVER, if Mom gets sued and loses, they could seize any assets that are in her name - even joint assets.

Aside from other actions that you might contemplate, you should seriously consider talking with your insurance agent about a large umbrella liability policy.