Denver Grandparents Rights Lawyer
In a divorce, frequently the parents and children aren't the only ones who sacrifice and compromise. Relationships with Grandparents are often overlooked. Grandparents often ask, "what can I do to make sure I don't lose contact with my grandchildren".
In Colorado, Grandparents have visitation rights only when a "custody or parental responsibilities case" exists. This is to say that grandparents may seek the courts help in granting visitation rights if there is or has been a child custody case. This includes cases involving divorce, custody, allocation of parental responsibilities or the death of a parent.
Grandparent visitation is independent of any visitation rights a child may have. Thus, Grandparents may be granted visitation rights even if their child has none.
Time is of the Essence
To preserve their rights, Grandparents seeking visitation should intervene and file their own petition along with an affidavit setting forth the facts supporting the request. Depending upon the situation, a hearing my be held and evidence heard. The court may then grant visitation based on what it determines to be in the best interests of the child. By law, Colorado courts must act in manner consistent with the best interests of the child.
A timely intervention along with proper case preparation can determine the difference between having or not having visitation granted. You don't have to go at it alone. Contact the Law Office of Keith Sandoval for a free consultation.
Allocation of Parental Responsibilities for Grandparents
Sometimes when a Grandparent has been acting as parent (i.e. has physical care of the child) special circumstances may arise in which a Grandparent has standing to pursue an allocation of parental responsibilities. Such an allocation could include both visitation and decision making authority over the child.
Establishing this type of standing is often further complicated when a biological parent disputes or fights the motion. Each case is different and a careful consideration of all the facts and circumstances is necessary for fair and equitable outcome.
In resolving these cases, as in all cases involving the care of children, the court will apply the best interests of the child standard. Considering all the facts and preparing your case well can be critical to success in court. Being prepared often requires the help of an experienced attorney. Contact the Law Office of Keith Sandoval for a free consultation.