Renee Harmon had been in a 19-year domestic partnership with
Tammy Davis, who gave birth to their three children during the
relationship.
When they separated in 2008, the pair formally shared duties -
until contact soured and Davis blocked access from September
2009.
As a result, Harmon sought custody through the courts. Originally,
a lower court ruling gave Harmon and her attorneys legal standing
to pursue the case - but now the Michigan Court of Appeals has
declared otherwise.
With a 4-3 majority, the ruled to deny the hearing, citing that
there were insufficient grounds.
In a statement they said that "we are not persuaded that the
questions presented should be reviewed by this court."
The case could've set a precedent for other gay, lesbian and
bisexual parents who want equal parental rights.
"I find it very important that nationally, gays and lesbians seem
to be going forwards," Harmon told The Advocate. "But in Michigan,
we're going backwards when it comes to gay rights."
Harmon is now expected to pursue the case in the federal court
system.
