Do you need legal assistance with a grandparents’ rights matter? Our firm represents grandparents in matters of visitation rights to grandchildren and other legal concerns. We urge you to consult with a lawyer at our firm to discuss the specific facts of your legal issue as soon as possible. We focus much of our practice on family law matters and are well-versed in the statutes and case law regarding grandparents’ rights in California.

Grandparents’ Rights in California

Grandparents in every state are awarded certain legal rights concerning their grandchildren. These rights have been recognized in the last few decades by state legislatures. Grandparents in California may file for visitation rights to their grandchildren only in certain circumstances which include when their grandchildren’s parents are living apart when a grandchild’s parent has lost contact with the family, when a grandchild has been adopted by a stepparent or when the grandchild does not live with either parent. Also, a grandparent may file a petition with the courts for rights if joined in the petition by one of the grandchild’s parents.

If a grandparent has had a pre-existing relationship with his or her grandchild that has created a bond between them, the grandparent may be able to obtain visitation rights. In the case of grandparents’ rights, however, courts must take into consideration the rights of parents first.

Because grandparents’ rights are a complicated issue, it is important that you discuss your particular situation in regards to your grandchildren with an  attorney . In a confidential consultation, we can review your case and advise you of your legal rights and options and help you make an informed decision about how best to proceed in your circumstances.