Grandparents play a very important role in the family. They can impart wisdom and important values to their grandchildren. The experience, wisdom and values that grandparents possess is priceless and can enrich the lives of children. These multi-generational relationships can have a serious impact on the family unit.
Mississippi Grandparents’ Visitation Rights Depend on the Best Interests of the Child
Do grandparents have any visitation rights at all under Mississippi law? The short answer to that question is Yes. However, those rights are very limited and they depend on what is in the best interests of the child.
Grandparent bears Burden of Proof where Visitation is Denied by a Child’s Parents
In circumstances where the natural parents of a child prevent a grandparent from visiting the child, the presumption is that the actions of the parent are in the best interests of the child. The grandparent seeking visitation with the child bears the burden of proof, and must overcome this presumption.
Grandparents’ Rights in Mississippi are Very Limited
In Mississippi, grandparents have very limited rights. Generally, the Courts want children to maintain a solid relationship with parents on both sides of the family. This is considered to be in the best interests of the child.
However, grandparents can file a petition for visitation in the following circumstances:
- Termination of parental rights of one or both parents of the child; or
- Death of one or both parents of the child
In those circumstances, and after considering other important factors, the Court may grant reasonable visitation rights to grandparents.
Contact a Southaven Mississippi Grandparents Rights Attorney Today
If you want to get legal advice and real answers on what rights a grandparent has under Mississippi law, or if you are a grandparent wanting visitation rights to your grandchild, please call Salu & Salu Law Firm at 662-342-7007 to schedule a consultation with our Mississippi Family Law Attorney. In the alternative, please use the contact form.