Grandparents' Rights Lawyer in Fresno
Securing Grandchildren's Custody and Visitation in California
In some divorce situations, grandparents in the Central Valley can seek custody or visitation rights for their grandchildren. Generally, parental rights take precedence over grandparent rights. However, California courts always prioritize the child's best interest. As a grandparent or parent, you need to understand both your state and federal rights. Grandparents have rights, but courts will not automatically enforce them. Speak with a Fresno divorce lawyer today to discuss your options and ways to stay involved in your grandchildren's lives.
California Family Code allows grandparents to petition the court for visitation in certain circumstances, such as when a child's parents have divorced or separated in a way that affects the child's well-being. Fresno County courts apply specific procedures when reviewing these petitions and examine the nature of the relationship between the grandparent and grandchild before making a decision. I guide grandparents through these procedures and address complicated family situations across Fresno, Clovis, and nearby communities.
Contact our trusted grandparents' rights lawyer in Fresno at (559) 900-1223 to schedule a confidential consultation.
How Fresno County Courts Handle Grandparent Visitation Petitions
Fresno County courts address grandparent visitation and custody cases by first assessing the family’s unique circumstances. Judges look for strong, ongoing relationships between grandparents and grandchildren, evaluating whether ongoing contact would benefit the child. Courts may appoint a mediator from Family Court Services in Downtown Fresno to assess family dynamics and report their findings to the judge. This mediation process allows both grandparents and parents to share their perspectives in a confidential environment.
The Central Valley contains many multigenerational households, and local judges recognize the value that grandparents add to a child's support system. During court hearings, judges consider statements, past involvement, and the underlying reasons for seeking visitation or custody. Providing clear documentation and outlining your connection with your grandchild can help demonstrate your ongoing commitment. My role includes preparing you for what to expect at Fresno County Superior Court and walking you through each step of your case.
Can a Parent Deny You Custody or Visitation?
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that parents hold primary authority to make decisions for their children. If the parents of your grandchild are married, they may deny you visitation rights. If your child is divorced, deceased, or was never married to the other parent, the wishes of the remaining parent still carry weight in court. However, in these situations, the court can override the parent’s decision and allow the grandparent access if it finds that contact would benefit the child. As your grandparents' rights attorney in Fresno, I can support you and help build a strong case that highlights your relationship with your grandchild.
Courts in Fresno County carefully review each family's situation, focusing on the bond between grandparent and grandchild and evidence that the relationship is in the child's best interest. Sometimes, the court will appoint a mediator or request a Family Court Services evaluation at the Fresno County Superior Court to learn more about family relationships. I help clients prepare to clearly present their relationship and explain the reasons for seeking visitation or custody.
Factors Judges Consider When Deciding Grandparent Visitation
Judges look at several important factors when making decisions about grandparent visitation. The court considers whether a meaningful relationship exists, the child's health and safety, and whether time with the grandparent will serve the child's best interests. Courts may ask about the quality and frequency of past visits, why a parent supports or opposes visitation, and the history of conflict or cooperation among adults involved.
In Fresno, local courts recognize the challenges that families may face after a divorce or the loss of a parent. The Central Valley includes many households where grandparents play an active role in children's lives, and judges appreciate the benefits of these connections. Each case relies on evidence, and judges turn to documentation, testimony, and mediator input to make the final decision. Addressing each factor thoroughly helps show your positive role in your grandchild's life and your alignment with California law.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can a grandparent request visitation rights in California?
Grandparents may ask the court for visitation if the child's parents are divorced, legally separated, or if one parent is deceased. The court will only grant these rights if it finds that visitation is in the child's best interest and that a strong relationship exists.
Do I need to attend mediation for a Fresno grandparent visitation case?
Yes, Fresno County Family Court usually requires parties to attend mediation through Family Court Services. Mediation helps families resolve disagreements, guides the court, and allows everyone to share their perspective before a judge makes a final decision.
How long does the grandparent visitation process take in Fresno?
The process varies based on court schedules and case complexity, but expect several months from your initial petition to the final hearing. Mediation, evaluations, and hearings can all affect how quickly your case moves through the Fresno County court system.
Contact Our Grandparents' Rights Attorney in Fresno Today
Grandparents may also request guardianship under certain conditions. If you believe the custodial parent cannot provide adequate care and the other parent has died, my firm can help you pursue guardianship and child custody. The laws governing grandparent rights are complex and often require the support of a knowledgeable attorney. I can help make sure that your role in your grandchildren’s lives does not get overlooked during the legal process.
I routinely work with clients to gather the documentation and testimony needed to support a guardianship request. Fresno County follows California's guardianship process, which requires notifying all interested parties and holding a hearing before a family law judge. The timeline for these proceedings may vary, depending on the court’s schedule and the complexity of your case, so acting promptly may improve your options. My role is to support you at every step and ensure the court receives a clear presentation of your relationship with your grandchild, your concerns for their well-being, and your purpose for seeking a legal guardianship or custody order.
Contact the Law Office of Zeppy Attashian, PC at (559) 900-1223 if you are concerned with issues of visitation, child support, or custody.
