Family Law
Divorce
Your Children

Do Grandparents And Stepparents Have Custody Rights?

“I am a grandparent. I have a right to see my grandchildren!”

Not exactly.

Make no mistake about it, at the Law Office of Michael L. Seidman, our attorneys think grandparents have an important role to play in the lives of their grandchildren. Some of their most treasured memories involve spending time with grandparents.

The law does not necessarily share that view. The rights of grandparents to obtain court-ordered visitation or custody are very narrow. If your situation qualifies, we can help you pursue your rights and achieve an outcome that is in the best interest of your grandchildren.

When Do Grandparents Have Visitation Rights?

There are specific situations where grandparents are granted visitation rights, primarily centering around situations where a parent has gone to jail or died. The idea is that it is important for children to maintain a connection to both sides of his or her family.

In cases where both parents have died or are otherwise out of the picture, a grandparent can file for guardianship. This is also an option for other interested parties such as aunts and uncles, and neighbors who have a pre-existing relationship with the child.

Let Us Help You

We hope this information has been helpful for you as you consider your options. If you believe your case qualifies for grandparents’ rights, contact us today for a free consultation with a lawyer.

From our office in Bakersfield, we represent grandparents in Kern County and surrounding areas of California.