Section 14-09.4-02 – Scope

May 14, 2021 | Family Law, North Dakota

1. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 2, this chapter applies to a proceeding in which a nonparent seeks custody or visitation.
2. This chapter does not apply to a proceeding:

a. Between nonparents, unless a parent is a party to the proceeding;
b. Pertaining to custody of or visitation with an Indian child as defined in the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 [25 U.S.C.1903 (4)], to the extent the proceeding is governed by the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 [25 U.S.C.1901 through 196]; and
c. Pertaining to a child who is the subject of an ongoing proceeding in any state regarding:

(1) Guardianship of the person; or
(2) An allegation by a government entity that the child is abused, neglected, dependent, or otherwise in need of care.
3. A nonparent may not maintain a proceeding under this chapter for custody of or visitation with a child solely because the nonparent served as a foster parent of the child.
4. An individual whose parental rights concerning a child have been terminated may not maintain a proceeding under this chapter concerning the child.
5. Relief under this chapter is not available during the period of a custody or visitation order e ntered under chapter 14-09.3 or other order dealing with custody of or visitation with a child of a deployed parent. A custody or visitation order entered before a parent was deployed remains in effect unless modified by the court.

N.D.C.C. § 14-09.4-02

Added by S.L. 2019, ch. 131 (SB 2051),§ 1, eff. 8/1/2019 and applicable to a proceeding commenced before 8/1/2019 in which a final order has not been entered and to a proceeding commenced on or after 8/1/2019.