What rights do grandparents have to visit their grandkids?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ธ.ค. 2024
- #grandparent #law #family #familylaw #visitation #rights
Yes, grandparents can have rights to see their grandkids, but they are limited.
Grandparent's Visitation: This is an option if the parents are fit but have cut off the grandparents due to a falling out or divorce. In the case of divorce, you must respect the parenting time of the now ex-son or daughter in law. However, when it is your own child's visitation time with the kids there are no restrictions for who the parent can have watch the kids meaning you aren’t restricted from visiting. In the case of a falling out or the former son or daughter in law are now the only parent and restrict your visitation option, you will need to file a petition. For the petition to potentially work you must prove a pre-existing relationship with the grandkids, that it’s in the grandkids' best interest, and that cutting off the relationship would cause more harm than good. However, keep in mind that you will be responsible for paying attorney fees that the parents incur from this process.
Minor Guardianship: This is an option if the parents are unfit (e.g., due to addiction or abandonment). You can seek guardianship through CPS or by filing a petition in The Superior Courts. You must then show that the parents are unable to provide basic care and that it’s in the best interest of the kids for you to be their guardian.
Legal Context: These rights stem from a Washington State case that went to the U.S. Supreme Court, that affirmed that fit parents have a constitutionally protected right to raise their kids how they want. The Washington state legislature has created laws to balance grandparent visitation rights to grandkids while still protecting the parents' rights to raise those grandkids.
For more information, contact us at info@pnwfamilylaw.com or call 509-866-4111