The Supreme Court of the United States recently refused to hear an appeal of an Alabama case that deals with grandparent visitation. In the case, a couple wanted a court order for grandparent rights that would allow them to visit with their grandchildren. The issue was which standard judges should apply when they decide whether to grant grandparent visitation.
In Michigan, grandparents are not afforded visitation only because a judge thinks it would be in a child’s best interest to see grandma or grandpa. Instead, grandparents must meet certain qualifications before bringing a petition for grandparent visitation or grandparent rights to the court. One of those prerequisites includes when the child’s parent, who is a child of the grandparents, is deceased. Another instance can be when an action for divorce, separation, or annulment involving the child’s parents is pending before the court. If you are a grandparent who wants to spend time with your grandchildren, it is a good idea to consult with a family law lawyer to determine whether you meet Michigan’s requirements to ask the court for visitation with your grandchildren.
Truly, any time custody or visitation of a child is at issue, it is a best to hire a skilled family law attorney. An experienced Michigan lawyer will know the ins and outs of dealing with the family courts in Michigan. Look for an attorney with a good track record, knowledge of the local courts, superior knowledge of the law, a professional that you can trust and an attorney with an excellent reputation.
