Grandparent Visitation Rights in Florida
Florida's grandparent visitation rights (§752.011) are limited by the U.S. Supreme Court's Troxel v. Granville decision, which holds that fit parents have a fundamental right to make decisions about their children's visitors.
When Grandparents Can Petition
- One or both parents are deceased, missing, or in vegetative state
- Parents' marriage has been dissolved
- Child born out of wedlock (paternity established)
- Must prove visitation is in child's best interest
- Clear and convincing evidence standard
Court Considerations
- Prior grandparent-child relationship and emotional bond
- Grandparent's moral, mental, and physical fitness
- Child's preference (if sufficiently mature)
- History of domestic violence or substance abuse
- Impact on school and social activities
- Parent's reasons for opposing visitation (given significant weight)
Related Terms
- Equity — Best interest standard
- Contract — Custody agreements
- Estate Planning — Guardianship provisions
Barnes Walker Family Law
Barnes Walker's attorneys represent grandparents seeking visitation rights in Florida family courts. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.
Florida Law Reference
Fla. Stat. Ch. 83, Part II
The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs lease agreements, security deposits, maintenance obligations, and the eviction process.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC