Grandparent Rights and Visitation

In 1976, the California Supreme Court ruled in Ball v. Ball that grandparents have a right to visitation with their grandchildren, even if the parents object.

Courts typically consider the best interests of the child to be the most important factor in determining whether to grant grandparent visitation rights.

California has some of the strongest grandparent visitation rights laws in the country. Grandparents in California have a right to petition the court for visitation rights, even if the parents object.

The most common reason why grandparents are denied visitation rights is because the parents object to the visitation.

Yes, a grandparent can be granted visitation rights if the child's parents are divorced. In fact, grandparents may have a stronger case for visitation rights if the parents are divorced, because the child may need additional support from extended family members.

All of the above. Grandparents who want to improve their chances of being granted visitation rights should file a petition with the court, hire an attorney, and mediate with the parents.

In most states, children must be at least 18 years old before they can decide whether or not they want to visit their grandparents.

All of the above. Grandparents who are denied visitation rights can still maintain a relationship with their grandchildren by sending letters and cards, making phone calls, and visiting the child's school or daycare.

All of the above. Grandparents who are seeking visitation rights should remember that the best interests of the child are always the most important consideration, that they have a right to see their grandchildren, and that they should never give up.

All of the above. Grandparents who want to learn more about their rights can talk to an attorney, read books and articles about grandparent rights, and attend a support group for grandparents.

All of the above. Grandparents who are granted visitation rights should follow the court order, be respectful of the parents, and put the child's needs first.

Mediation is the best way for grandparents to resolve disputes with the parents about visitation. Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps the parties to reach an agreement.

All of the above. Grandparents who are visiting their grandchildren should remember that the child's needs come first, that they should respect the parents' wishes, and that they should have fun.

All of the above. Grandparents who live far away from their grandchildren can stay connected with them by using technology, visiting as often as possible, and sending letters and cards.

All of the above. Grandparents who are concerned about the child's safety or well-being should talk to the parents, contact the child's doctor or teacher, and call the police.