Portland Grandparents’ Rights Attorneys
What Are Grandparents’ Rights in Oregon?
A child’s best interests are the main factor Oregon courts will take into consideration when determining child custody or visitation rights for grandparents. Typically, the courts presume that a child’s parents should be granted sole custody. However, there are circumstances where a grandparent may petition the court for custody or visitation rights. A grandparent close to their grandchild may wish to do so.
Interested in establishing your rights as a grandparent in Oregon? Contact our Portland grandparents' rights lawyers online or call us at (503) 433-8340 today.
Do Grandparents’ Have Visitation Rights in Oregon?
Oregon law believes a child’s parents will act in the child’s best interests. Therefore, a grandparent wishing to obtain visitation rights must prove to the court that it would be in the grandchild's best interests to grant this. Oregon courts can be restrictive when it comes to awarding grandparent visitation rights. Grandparent visitation may be deemed appropriate in the following situations:
- The child will be negatively affected if grandparent visitation is denied
- The grandparent is or was recently the child’s primary caretaker
- The child’s parent denied or refused contact between the child and grandparent
It is important to note that Oregon law promotes parental rights over grandparents’ rights in most cases.
When Do Grandparents’ Stand a Chance of Getting Child Custody?
There are certain factors in place to determine if custody can be awarded to a grandparent. These may include but are not limited to the following:
- Legal parent is unfit or unwilling to care for the child
- Grandparent is or was recently the child’s primary caretaker
- Child will be affected negatively
- Child’s parent encouraged or allowed the child’s relationship with the grandparent
- Child’s legal parent has denied or refused contact between the child and the grandparent
These factors vary according to the case presented. If evidence shows that the child’s parents are not acting in the child’s best interests and that the child could be cared for better by the grandparent, this may warrant a change of custody. A grandparent’s custody and visitation rights will always come second to a parent’s in the state of Oregon.
Third-Party Child Custody & Visitation Rights
While a grandparent seeking custody rights is a common scenario, Oregon’s third-party custody statute does not restrict this law to just grandparents. Instead, anyone that has established a child-parent relationship with the child may request custody and visitation rights. These third-party individuals may include:
- Siblings
- Aunts and uncles
- Cousins
- Stepparents
- To show a child-parent relationship, the third party must show that they have established a relationship within the six months preceding the filing of an action. This relationship is defined as having physical custody of the child, residing in the same household as the child, or providing for the child. However, a relationship between a child and a third-party individual is not considered a child-parent relationship unless the relationship extends for 12 months.
Why Choose Levine Law Center for Your Grandparents' Rights Case?
At Levine Law Center LLC, we understand that navigating the complexities of grandparents' rights can be emotionally challenging. Our dedicated team of attorneys specializes in family law and is committed to advocating for your rights as a grandparent. Here’s why you should choose us to represent you:
- Personalized Legal Strategies: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
- Compassionate Support: Our attorneys are not just legal experts; we are also empathetic listeners who recognize the emotional stakes involved in family law cases.
- Proven Track Record: With years of experience in Oregon family law, we have successfully helped numerous grandparents secure visitation and custody rights.
- Transparent Communication: We prioritize keeping you informed throughout the legal process, ensuring you understand your options and the steps ahead.
- Community Involvement: Our firm is deeply rooted in the Portland community, and we are committed to advocating for the rights of families and children.
When it comes to protecting your relationship with your grandchildren, don’t leave it to chance. Let our experienced attorneys guide you through the legal landscape and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward securing your grandparents' rights.
Understanding the Legal Process for Grandparents' Rights
Navigating the legal landscape surrounding grandparents' rights can be complex and daunting. At Levine Law Center LLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with a clear understanding of the legal process involved in seeking visitation or custody rights. We take the time to explain each step, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your case.
Here’s what you can expect when working with us:
- Initial Consultation: We will discuss your specific situation and outline your options.
- Case Evaluation: Our team will assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case to develop a tailored strategy.
- Documentation Support: We assist you in gathering and preparing all necessary documentation to support your claim.
- Representation in Court: Our attorneys will represent your interests vigorously, advocating for your rights and the well-being of your grandchildren.
- Ongoing Support: We provide continuous updates and support throughout the entire legal process.
By choosing Levine Law Center LLC, you are not just hiring an attorney; you are gaining a dedicated partner who will fight for your rights and the precious relationships that matter most. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards securing your grandparents' rights.
To speak with our experienced Portland grandparents' rights lawyers, give us a call at (503) 433-8340 or contact us online today.
What Must Third-Party Individuals Requesting Custody or Visitation Prove?
While seeking third-party custody and visitation rights is not impossible, it does prove difficult. Oregon requires that the third-party individual requesting such rights prove the following:
- Legal parent is unfit or unwilling to care for the child
- Child would be psychologically, emotionally, or physically harmed otherwise
- Legal parent at one time fostered, encouraged, and consented to the relationship between the child and the third party
- Legal parent had, in recent times, unreasonably denied or limited contact between the child and the third party
Why Choose Levine Law Center for Your Grandparents' Rights Case?
At Levine Law Center, we understand that navigating the complexities of grandparents' rights can be emotionally challenging. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal support tailored to your unique situation. Here’s why we stand out:
- Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys have extensive experience in family law, specifically in cases involving grandparents' rights. We stay updated on the latest legal precedents and state laws to provide you with the best representation.
- Personalized Approach: We believe that every case is unique. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and develop a customized strategy that aligns with your goals and family dynamics.
- Strong Advocacy: We are passionate advocates for grandparents' rights. Whether it’s negotiating visitation arrangements or pursuing custody, we are dedicated to fighting for your interests in court.
- Transparent Communication: We prioritize clear communication throughout the legal process. You will always be informed about your case's progress and any important developments.
- Supportive Environment: We strive to create a supportive atmosphere where you feel comfortable discussing your needs and concerns. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Let Levine Law Center be your trusted partner in securing your rights as a grandparent. We are here to help you navigate the legal landscape with confidence and compassion.