Though the courts tend to side with the parents, it is possible for grandparents to secure visitation rights in order to establish or maintain a relationship with their grandchildren.
At the offices of Charley Hutchens, Professional Law Corporation in Lafayette, Louisiana, we pride ourselves on providing grandparents and parents with tailored and qualified representation in a wide variety of family law cases, including grandparents' rights. Our firm is focused on handling cases in the area of family law, allowing us to look at your entire situation and assess how each possible outcome might affect your family and your future.
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There are a number of statutes and laws that govern the awarding of grandparent visitation rights in Louisiana. Our firm is fluent in the language of these laws and can explain how they may relate to your case.
It is important to know that the courts consider a wide variety of factors when determining if a grandparent has the right to see a child. Some of these factors include:
- Whether or not the parents are willing to allow the child to see a grandparent.
- If a child has established a parent-like relationship with the grandparents, it may be shown that the child could suffer real or significant harm if that relationship was ended.
- Provided it is in the best interests of the child, virtually any person can be granted visitation rights.
- Unless a parent is deemed unfit to make such a decision, the courts may side with the parents if they have determined that the absence of the grandparents from the child's life is in the child's best interests.
As long as a parent is fit, a grandparent may not have many options. However, our firm is committed to standing by clients throughout the entirety of their cases, pursuing grandparents' rights to the fullest extent of the law whenever necessary.
Guardianship
In certain cases, it may be in the best interest of the child for a grandparent or other relative to seek guardianship over the child in order to see that the child's needs are more effectively met. The courts act solely in the best interests of the child in these situations, utilizing experts to assess whether or not the parent is fit to care for the child. We can assist you in understanding the guardianship process and determine if seeking guardianship is appropriate in your situation.
- In addition to representing grandparents in guardianship, custody and visitation rights cases, we also represent other family members, including siblings, aunts, and uncles, in seeking visitation rights and access to the child.
Contact Us
Whatever legal challenges you and your family are facing, you need answers to your questions before you take any action. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a consultation as soon as possible. All major credit cards are accepted.
Charley Hutchens, Professional Law Corporation
1704 W University Ave
Lafayette, LA 70506
Toll Free: 888-894-0862
Phone: 337-205-4601
Fax: 337-233-5178
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