California Grandparent Visitation Rights
In California, grandparents have the legal right to seek visitation with their grandchildren if the parents of the child are divorced, separated, or if the parents are unmarried. Grandparents may also seek visitation if their grandchild’s parent has died.How to Request Visitation
If you are a grandparent seeking visitation, you must first file a petition for visitation in the county where your grandchild lives.
The petition should include the following information:
- The names and addresses of the grandparent and grandchild.
- The name, address, and contact information of the grandchild’s parents.
- The name and address of the grandchild’s current legal guardian, if any.
- The reasons why the grandparent should be granted visitation rights.
California Grandparent Custody Rights
In California, grandparents may seek custody of their grandchild if the parents are unable or unwilling to provide care for the child. Grandparents may also seek custody if the child has been abandoned, abused, or neglected.How to Request Custody
If you are a grandparent seeking custody of your grandchild, you must file a petition for custody in the county where your grandchild lives.
The petition should include the following information:
- The names and addresses of the grandparent and grandchild.
- The name, address, and contact information of the grandchild’s parents.
- The name and address of the grandchild’s current legal guardian, if any.
- The reasons why the grandparent should be granted custody of the child.
- The grandparent’s plans for the care and upbringing of the child.