After Divorce, Parents, and Grandparents Can Apply for Child Visitation Rights
The United States has the highest rate of children living in single-parent homes. According to statistics, nearly a quarter (23%) of children in the US live with a single parent. (1)
The court always tries to ensure that both parents remain in the child’s life since this is in the best interest of the children. However, if one parent is abusive or the children are at risk by being alone with that parent, the court may grant sole physical custody to the more stable parent.
In every divorce case – whether there was abuse involved or not – one of the parents is considered the custodial parent, while the other is considered the noncustodial parent. The noncustodial parent does not live with the children majority of the time, but they are granted visitation rights so they can continue to be a part of their children’s life.
Aside from the biological parents, there are other close family members who can apply for visitation right as well. However, it is important to keep in mind that these visitation laws and guidelines change frequently and anyone who has questions regarding applying for visitation should first speak with a qualified attorney to get proper legal advice.
Each visitation case is different, and the court will always make its decision based on what they believe is in the best interest of the child.
In Connecticut, visitation rights can be granted to certain family members.
Visitation Rights for Grandparents
According to state law, the grandparents of a child may apply for visitation rights, and visitation may be granted to them based on the strength of their relationship with the child. If they can prove they had a strong relationship with the child and removing the grandparent from the child’s life would cause significant harm, then visitation rights may be granted. It is important to keep in mind that every case is different, and the courts may decide to give or prevent visitation based on the details of the situation.
Visitation Rights for Stepparents and Other Interested Parties
If the biological parents are opposed to the visitation of a stepparent or third party, it can be difficult for them to apply for visitation rights. There are no specific laws in Connecticut that allow stepparents or other interested parties to gain visitation rights. The court will judge the case and decide based on what they believe is in the best interest of the children.
Parents who terminate their parental rights or who give their child up for adoption will likely lose their right to apply for visitation.
Get in Touch with a Child Custody Lawyer in CT Today
Child visitations significantly impact the quality of life of a child, and all visitation requests should be taken very seriously. If you are a parent or a grandparent and you want to apply for visitation rights to see your child or grandchild, you should connect with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Get in touch with an experienced divorce lawyer, Heidi Opinsky, at the Law Offices of Heidi Opinsky, LLC, today to learn more about your visitation rights and to get help with your child visitation application.
Visit our website to send us a message or call 203-653-3542 now and we will get back to you as soon as possible
References:
1. https://thehighcourt.co/children-of-divorce-statistics/#:~:text=8%25%20of%20US%20children%20live,place%20in%20the%20United%20States.