Grandparents in Connecticut may apply to the Family Court to obtain visitation with their grandchild.

For a judge to grant grandparent visitation over a parent’s objection there must be two separate findings:

1. The grandparent must have a relationship with the child that is parent-like; and

2. Denial of the visitation will cause real and significant harm to the child.

If both of these prongs are met, the judge may then order grandparent visitation based on the child’s best interest.

It is often disappointing for grandparents to learn that the child’s best interests are not considered unless the grandparents meet both parts of the test.

Other points:

The application/petition must be “verified.” This means that the information submitted must be attested to under penalty of perjury. Be mindful about any misrepresentations.

In any contested visitation action, the judge will often appoint a guardian ad litem or attorney for the minor child. Grandparent visitation cases are no exception. The grandparent may be held responsible for the payment of these fees.

The judge may also refer the matter to Family Relations for mediation or an evaluation.

Here is a new court form that a grandparent must file to request visitation:

 

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