Grandparent Rights Lawyers in Southlake

Understanding Your Rights Regarding Grandchild Visitation & Custody

Grandparents play a significant role in a child’s life. In many cases, grandparents and grandchildren can develop strong, lifelong bonds. Unfortunately, grandparents are often prevented from seeing their grandchildren by one or both parents or through related circumstances.

In Texas, grandparents do have some rights in regards to visitation and custody. However, it is important to note that these rights are somewhat limited. The court will always rule in favor of the child’s best interests, and it will often prioritize the wishes of the parents unless there are extenuating circumstances.

When Can a Grandparent Be Granted Visitation in Tarrant County?

As previously mentioned, Texas family courts prioritize the wishes of the parents. In other words, it may be difficult to secure court-ordered visitation simply because your child or your child’s spouse does not want you to see your grandchild. However, you may be able to obtain visitation with your grandchild if specific circumstances exist and the court determines that it is in the best interests of the child.

The court may order grandparent visitation if it is in the best interests of the child and:

• The parents of the child are separated or divorced
• The child has been abused or neglected
• One or both parents are incarcerated
• One or both parents have been found incompetent
• One or both parents have died
• The parent’s relationship with the child has been terminated by the court
• The child has lived with the grandparent for six months or more

If the grandchild lives with the grandparent, the grandparent may request custody. Legal and physical custody allows you to make decisions about your grandchild’s living arrangement, medical treatment, education, and other relevant aspects of his or her upbringing. It may also be possible to secure child support from the parent(s).

If you are granted visitation with your grandchild, it is important to remember that you do not have an absolute right to visitation. In other words, the court may revoke visitation if it deems it no longer applicable. Furthermore, you may not request visitation if your grandchild has been adopted by anyone who is not a stepparent.

Secure Your Grandchild's Future: Contact Us

At Justice Law Firm, we understand that when someone has reached the point of seeking court-ordered grandparent rights, the situation at hand has typically become very volatile. Our Southlake grandparent rights attorneys can help you clearly understand your legal rights and options. We can serve as your compassionate guide and resolute advocate throughout the process. Our experienced team assists clients throughout the area, including Tarrant County, with all types of family law and related issues.