How does a grandparent enforce a visitation order?

In Washington, a grandparent can enforce their visitation rights through a court-ordered visitation order. The order must be obtained through the court system, either through an attorney or a court-appointed mediator. If the parents of the grandchild are refusing the grandparent visitation rights, the grandparent can file a petition with the court. The court will review the evidence presented and make a decision as to whether or not the grandparent should have visitation rights. Once a visitation order is in place, both parties are obligated to abide by its terms. If the parent or grandparent refuses visitation as outlined in the order, the grandparent has the option to contact the court and request a hearing to address the non-compliance. At the hearing, the court will make a ruling on how to enforce the visitation order. Depending on the severity of the non-compliance, the court may order the parent to follow the court order and may even impose financial or jail time penalties for failure to do so. If the parent continues to deny the grandparent visitation rights, the grandparent may return to court and request a modification of the visitation order. This revision could be more specific and/or more restrictive. The grandparent should always ensure that the court order is enforced, as failure to do so can result in serious legal ramifications.

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How does a grandparent enforce a visitation order?

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