“I think that if the partner of the legal guardian is a fit parent, then custody should be given to them.”

— Mark Higbie, system administrator, Lawrence

“I think the other partner should be able to gain custody through the courts. It should probably be handled on a case-by-case basis.”

— Margo Bell, freelance writer, Kansas City, Mo.

“I think that if it's a healthy household, there is no reason the other partner shouldn't be given custody.”

— Nick Bowling, server, Lawrence

“I think the child should stay with the surviving partner. Especially if they have raised the child since birth or adoption.”

— Barbara Starrett, academic researcher, Lawrence