If a grandparent is denied visitation, what can they do?

If a grandparent is denied visitation in West Virginia, they have the right to file a petition in the family court in the county where the child lives. The grandparent must ask the court to give them visitation rights with their grandchild. The court will consider a variety of factors to decide if visitation should be allowed, such as the child’s relationship with the grandparent, the child’s preference, the family’s lifestyle, the grandparent’s past behavior, and the grandparent’s current mental and physical health. The court may also consider evidence presented by both sides, including testimony from any relevant witnesses. If the court decides in favor of the grandparent, they will issue a visitation schedule, which will outline the days and times that the grandparent can visit the child. In cases of serious disputes, the court may even order supervised visitation. In cases where visitation is denied, the grandparent can appeal the ruling by filing an appeal with the court. The appeal should include a brief explaining the reasons why the grandparent should be allowed to visit the grandchild. However, the grandparent should be aware that filing an appeal can be costly, especially if the case needs to be argued before a higher court. If the grandparent is unable to obtain visitation or to appeal the ruling, they can still stay involved in the grandchild’s life in other ways. Grandparents can stay in touch with the grandchild through letters, emails, phone calls, or video chats. They can also attend the grandchild’s public school events, such as sports games and plays. Finally, they can offer financial and emotional support to the grandchild and their parents.

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