Grandparents can play a key role in raising and caring for their grandchildren. We, like most people, have fond memories of our grandparents and are grateful for the important role they had our lives. Unfortunately, in some situations, a parent will prohibit or restrict the visitation and contact rights of a child’s grandparents. When this occurs, grandparents should seek the aid of an experienced Florida family law attorney.
The Criteria for Granting Grandparent Visitation Rights in Florida
Under Florida family law, grandparents and other family members have the right to file a petition with the court requesting visitation. However, a court will only grant visitation rights if a grandparent can show it will be in the child’s best interests, and that there would be a significant detriment to the child if visitation rights are not granted.
When determining if visitation will be in the best interests of the child, the court will consider many factors, such as:
- The opinions of the children, parents, and grandparent(s)
- How involved the grandparent(s) have been in the child’s life
- The ability of the grandparent(s) to provide a stable, nurturing environment
- The strength of the relationship the grandparent(s) have with the child
- The child’s preference
- Whether the grandparent(s) are able to provide an environment that will meet the child’s needs
In addition to proving that visitation is in the child’s best interest, the grandparent must show that the child is in danger of being hurt or harmed. For instance, if the child’s parents have alcohol or drug abuse problems it could pose a danger to the child. Other circumstances such as criminal activity, domestic violence, and mental illness may also place the child in danger of being harmed and convince a court that visitation or custody rights should be given to grandparents and other family members.
Consult With a Florida Family Law Attorney That Understands Grandparents’ Rights
The professional legal team at Florida Law Advisers, P.A., have helped many families resolve visitation and custody disputes. We understand how important child custody matters are and we work tirelessly to help ensure our client’s goals are attained. We are intimately familiar with all aspects of family law and are skilled advocates in the courtroom. If you are a grandparent requesting visitation or custody of your grandchildren, do not hesitate to contact us for help.
If you need a family law attorney in Tampa, you can visit our office to get more information.