North Dakota § 14-09-09 - Liability of stepparent for support
Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-09 — Liability of stepparent for support, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-09-09. Liability of stepparent for support
A stepparent is not bound to maintain the spouse's dependent children, as defined in section 50-09-01, unless the child is received into the stepparent's family. If the stepparent receives them into the family, the stepparent is liable, to the extent of the stepparent's ability, to support them during the marriage and so long thereafter as they remain in the stepparent's family. Such liability may be enforced against the stepparent by any person furnishing necessaries to such children. If an order issued under section 14-09-08.10 requires an obligee to provide health insurance coverage, any coverage that is available to the stepparent for the obligee's dependent children is considered to be available to the obligee and is enforceable against the stepparent by a child support agency. If the children are received into the stepparent's family and supported by the stepparent, it is presumed that the stepparent does so as a parent, in which case the children are not liable to the stepparent for their support, nor the stepparent to them for their services. The legal obligation of a natural or adoptive parent to support that person's children is not affected by the liability imposed upon their stepparent by this section.
Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 14-09-09
What does North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-09 cover?
Section 14-09-09 ("Liability of stepparent for support") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Dakota § 14-09-09?
A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 14-09-09" (North Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.
How does North Dakota § 14-09-09 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Dakota.