Visitation Rights for Grandparents After RI Divorce

Grandparents May Request Visitation Rights

No matter who gets custody of a child after a divorce, it is expected that the child will be able to enjoy access to both parents (unless there is some legal reason the other parent should not interact with the child). However, there is no guarantee that grandparents will be able to visit the grandchildren of a divorced spouse. If a grandparent wishes to ensure visitation of a grandchild after a divorce, he must make an official request through the Family Court.

The Court will consider a few factors in order to determine whether the child should be allowed to visit the grandparent(s), including:

Whether visitation is in the best interests of the grandchild

Whether the grandparent is fit and responsible to be granted visitation rights

Whether the grandparent has attempted to visit the grandchild within the previous 30 days before petitioning, but he was prevented from doing so

Whether court intervention is the only way the grandparent would reasonably be able to visit the grandchild

Whether the grandparent has clear evidence that a parent’s decision to refuse visitation was not reasonable

Once the Court grants visitation rights to the grandparent, it can also take action to enforce the visitation rights if the parent is unwilling to accept the ruling. In addition, the law requires that any further custody or visitation petitions be provided to all parties that have been granted visitation. This allows grandparents to remain a presence in the child’s life unless the Court issues an order removing visitation rights.

Do You Need To Speak To A Rhode Island Divorce Attorney?

If you are considering a divorce you need to speak with an experienced Rhode Island divorce attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help divorce clients in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.

Related links:

Do grandparents have visitation rights after a Rhode Island divorce?

Grandparents May Request Visitation Rights

Do You Need To Speak To A Rhode Island Divorce Attorney?