Grandparents' Rights

Many grandparents are often concerned about what will become of their relationship with their grandchildren following a divorce. If their child is not granted some form of custody, will the other parent be allowed to terminate their visitation rights? If you are a grandparent who would like to establish your legal rights to see your grandchildren, contact the law offices of the Stockton family lawyer today.

The state of California recognizes the rights of grandparents to have a relationship with their grandchildren; however establishing these rights legally can be a complicated matter. The family courts recognize that parents have the right to decide on their children’s welfare, including who has access to their children. However, the courts also recognize that a relationship with a grandparent and other non-custodial individuals may be in the best interests of the child.

A grandparent cannot file for visitation rights if the parents of a child are married unless the parents are living apart, a parent’s location is unknown for at least a month, a child has been adopted by a stepparent or the child does not live with either biological parent.

A grandparent whose child is seeking a divorce may also file for visitation alongside the divorcing parent. If a grandparent can prove that he or she has established a strong positive relationship with the child, the judge may rule in their favor.

The Stockton family lawyer has many years of experience working with all types of custody and visitation arrangements. Contact us today to consult with you about your grandparents’ rights case.