Grandparents play an important role in a child's life. They provide love, care, and support that can impact a child's well-being. However, in some cases, grandparents may be denied access to their grandchildren, either due to divorce, death or estrangement of a parent. In such situations, it's important to understand the legal rights of grandparents to visit their grandchildren.
Important Information About Grandparent Rights in California
Here are some essential things you need to know about grandparent visitation rights in California:
Right to Seek Court-Ordered Visitation
California law recognizes the importance of the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren. Under the California Family Code, grandparents have the right to seek court-ordered visitation with their grandchildren.
Proof of Relationship
To obtain court-ordered visitation, grandparents must demonstrate that they have an existing relationship with their grandchild that has "engendered a bond." This means that they have spent time with the child, have a positive relationship with them, and that the child would be harmed if the relationship were to be terminated.
Considering The Child's Best Interest
Grandparents can seek visitation rights if one of the parents is deceased, the child's parents are divorced, or if the child is not living with either parent. In addition, grandparents can seek visitation rights if there is a "sufficient relationship" between the grandparent and the child and if the visitation would be in the child's best interests.
The Court Will Consider Multiple Factors
The court will consider several factors when determining whether to grant grandparent visitation rights, including the child's age, the nature of the relationship between the grandparent and the child, the impact of the visitation on the child's routine, and the child's preference if they are old enough to express it.
Determining The Visitation Schedule
If the court grants grandparent visitation rights, the visitation schedule will be determined based on the child's best interests. This may include regular visitation, phone calls, or other forms of contact.
Contact Our Attorneys at SANTO MEHAS A Professional Law Corporation
Grandparents have legal rights to seek visitation with their grandchildren in California. If you are a grandparent who has been denied access to your grandchild, it's important to speak with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.
At SANTO MEHAS A Professional Law Corporation, we are committed to helping families resolve complex legal issues related to grandparent visitation rights. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you. (805) 222-7818