What Are The Custody Rights Of Grandparents?

At The Law Offices of Burch, Coulston & Shepard, LLP, in Newport Beach, we know that adverse or tragic circumstances sometimes call for grandparents to step in and care for their grandchildren. In other cases, family conflict creates a situation calling for defense against a legal action by grandparents that parents have good reasons to oppose.

In-Depth Knowledge Of Guardianships, Nonparent Custody And Visitation Rights

Our accomplished attorneys are prepared to evaluate your unique situation, offer sound legal guidance and:

• Skillfully pursue your petitions for guardianship and/or child custody after the deaths of the parents — or if parents are unable or unwilling to properly care for your grandchildren.
• Build the most compelling case possible for court-ordered grandparent visitation rights on your behalf.
• Defend you and your child or children against a hostile attempt by grandparents to force visitation against your wishes.

Our dedicated Orange County legal team emphasizes personal attention to each client's unique needs. We will be forthright about your likelihood of success in taking legal action, given that grandparents' rights are extremely limited under California law and many case precedents have reinforced parental authority and discretion.

It is important to recognize that the best interest of the child is the court's guiding principle in all family law matters, including grandparent custody and visitation. Your case may require extensive research and discovery to evaluate whether a close psychological bond exists between grandparents and grandchildren, for example — or that either allowing or denying visitation will be detrimental to the child.

Clear, Informed Legal Guidance For People Facing Difficult Family Conflicts

The lawyers at our firm have decades of experience resolving complex custody disputes and other family conflicts. We will offer clear, reliable insight into the custody evaluation process and the burdens of proof that must be met to achieve your goals. We have strong working relationships with numerous qualified child psychiatrists, family counselors and other experts that may prove pivotal for your case.

Contact our law firm today at (949) 565-4158 to schedule a consultation focused on your concerns as a loving grandparent or parent.