Would I be considered the minor鈥檚 natural or adoptive parent, stepparent, guardian, or custodian, or person?

My wife and I allowed a 16 year old cousin of my wife to come live with us. She was not respecting me so I told my wife I wanted out of the custody filing for her but I wouldn't stop her from getting custody. I removed myself from the court papers before the costody was awarded to my wife. I never even really talked to the girl. Would I still be considered the minor鈥檚 natural or adoptive parent, stepparent, guardian, or custodian, or person?
Answer:
NONE of the above. Custody (or guardianship) was given to your wife. She is still a cousin by biology/ family connection BUT guardian is a legal status. Apples and oranges... for your wife.
At this point, then you have no legal standing at all, regarding the minor. What you have is authority relating to someone in your home.. which of course, you share with your wife.
I am just hoping now that you and your wife have a GOOD relationship, and the two of you can agree on rules and boundaries that are expected from her. If she continues to be hostile or belligerant, and the two of you as adults, wind up at each other's throats, it is going to be a major issue.
She already has convinced the court that she is willing to take on the job of being responsible for the girl. If it creates problems that husband and wife can't solve... it sure would be a hard thing for your wife to choose between you, or going back to court and dumping on what she asked the court to grant her.
16 is a horrible age for the best of kids. If she is having other issues, you have a lot on your plate, to say the least.
Good luck to you both.

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i THINK you'd be considered their stepparent

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i dont think you are anything to her. your wife is the guardian

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I would say Step-parent. You might want ask a lawyer just in case something gets nasty and you're expected to pay for stuff like child support. If you don't get along with the girl, how do you get along with your wife having custody? Are you just going to sit by while she makes all the decisions? This is your house too. I believe you're going to be in for some conflict in the future.

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Too bad the kid acts like a punk! At 16 they can be emancipated and legally responsible for themselves if they have not been in trouble with the law. I hope this brat does not cause a strain on ur relationship w/ur wife. I hope she can enforce the house laws w/this kid!! I think only socially u will be considered a step parent but not legally.