Frye v. Frye

OPINION

This case presents the question whether the doctrine of equitable adoption may be utilized to impose a duty to pay child support. We hold that, on the facts of this case, it may.

Charles and Cynthia Frye were married in 1982. Cynthia had a daughter, Amanda, by another marriage. Amanda was less than one and one-half years old when her mother married Charles, and was treated as Charles’ own daughter throughout their marriage. She now perceives Charles alone as her father.

Both before and after marriage, the couple discussed whether Charles should adopt Amanda. Cynthia denies having…