When a parent remarries and the parent’s minor child from the prior marriage forms a significant bond with their new stepparent, the issue of stepparent custody and visitation rights may arise if the marriage with the stepparent also dissolves. Unless the stepparent has legally adopted the child (and is thus no longer a stepparent), courts don’t usually grant a stepparent primary or shared custody of a minor child. But the court may award a stepparent limited visitation rights, depending on the amount of time the stepparent spent with the child, the extent of the stepparent’s participation in the child’s upbringing, and whether the stepparent provided financial support for the child.

In Oregon, stepparents do not have the same legal standing as biological or adoptive parents when it comes to custody and visitation rights. However, under certain circumstances, a stepparent may be granted visitation rights. Oregon law recognizes the importance of maintaining a child's relationship with a stepparent when it is in the best interest of the child. The court may consider factors such as the length and quality of the relationship between the child and the stepparent, the stepparent's involvement in the child's life, and whether the stepparent has provided financial support. It is important to note that these rights are not automatic and the stepparent must petition the court to obtain visitation rights. The court's primary consideration is always the best interest of the child, and any decision regarding visitation will reflect that principle. An attorney specializing in family law can provide guidance on the specific steps a stepparent needs to take to pursue visitation rights in Oregon.