If you are a grandparent who has been denied access to your grandchildren in Nevada, you may have legal options. Nevada law recognizes that grandparent-grandchild relationships can be of critical importance to a child’s wellbeing — and under certain circumstances, courts can order visitation rights for grandparents over a parent’s objection.
Nevada Grandparent Visitation Law
Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 125C.050), a grandparent may petition the court for visitation rights with a grandchild. The court will grant visitation if it finds that visitation is in the best interest of the child and that a meaningful relationship already exists or existed between grandparent and grandchild.
When Can Grandparents Seek Visitation in Nevada?
Nevada allows grandparents to petition for visitation rights in specific circumstances: the child’s parents are divorced or separated, one parent has passed away, the child was born outside of marriage, or the child has lived with the grandparent for a significant period. Courts are more likely to grant visitation when there is a documented, loving relationship between grandparent and grandchild.
Best Interest of the Child Standard
All Nevada grandparent visitation decisions are made using the best interest of the child standard. Courts consider factors including the child’s existing relationship with the grandparent, the grandparent’s mental and physical health, the child’s wishes (if old enough), and any history of domestic violence or abuse. Courts also give significant weight to fit parents’ decisions about grandparent contact.
Grandparent Custody vs. Grandparent Visitation
There is an important legal distinction between grandparent visitation and grandparent custody. Visitation means scheduled time with the grandchild; custody means legal authority over the child’s upbringing. Grandparent custody in Nevada typically requires showing that neither parent is fit or able to care for the child. Both paths have different legal standards and procedures.
How to Petition for Grandparent Visitation in Las Vegas
Grandparent visitation petitions are filed in Nevada Family Court. The process involves filing a formal petition, providing evidence of your relationship with the grandchild, and potentially attending mediation or a court hearing. Having an experienced Las Vegas family law attorney significantly improves your chances of success.
Contact Hauser Family Law — Las Vegas Grandparent Rights Attorneys
If you are being prevented from seeing your grandchildren, contact Hauser Family Law in Las Vegas. Our attorneys are experienced in Nevada grandparent rights cases and will fight to protect your relationship with your grandchildren. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Related resource: Complete Guide to Adoption in Nevada and Father’s Rights and Custody Tips in Nevada.