Representing Grandparents in Visitation and Neglect Cases
One of the most heartbreaking outcomes of divorce can be the effect it has on relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. When a vengeful ex-spouse cuts off contact with grandchildren, grandparents can lose access to a child they have loved since birth.
While grandparents do have rights, those rights have been modified greatly in recent years. At the law firm of Stowell, P.C. in Lone Tree, Colorado, our lawyers represent grandparents who are seeking visitation or custody of grandchildren following divorce or in situations of child neglect and abuse.
What Rights Do Grandparents Have?
Grandparents are considered a third-party in child custody cases. Under a Supreme Court ruling, state courts cannot provide visitation to third parties over the objections of a parent, unless the parent is deemed to be unfit. In order to protect the parent-child relationship whenever possible, the court sets a high standard for what is considered unfit.
The Supreme Court's ruling has been reviewed and interpreted by Colorado courts countless times. Our lawyers have in-depth knowledge of applicable case law and statutes, and we are prepared to advise you based on the facts of your case. It may be possible to negotiate reasonable visitation times without court intervention.
What if the Child is Endangered or the Parent is Unfit?
Our lawyers represent grandparents who wish to take care of grandchildren who are seeking custody or guardianship of children removed from the home of allegedly neglectful or abusive parents.
Learn more about Dependency and Neglect hearings.
Schedule an Attorney Consultation
To discuss your grandparent rights case with a lawyer at Stowell, P.C., call 888-353-9358 or fill out our contact form. From our office in Lone Tree, Colorado, we represent clients in the Denver metropolitan area and throughout Douglas, El Paso and Pueblo counties.
