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Des Moines Grandparents’ Rights Attorneys

Dedicated Legal Support for Grandparents’ Rights in Iowa 

Grandparents with custody rights

Grandparents often play a significant role in their grandchildren's lives. They may provide necessary care for grandchildren when parents are away, act as role models in the arts, sports, hobbies, or other fields, and develop deep and loving relationships based on family values. Sometimes, these relationships are disrupted or even ended due to divorce, a parent's death, or family conflict. Regardless of the reason, both grandparent and grandchild may suffer from the loss due to an issue or event they cannot control.

In Iowa, grandparents have certain legal rights that are within limits. If your relationship with your grandchild has been threatened or denied, you should get sound legal counsel. Hope Law Firm is an established family law firm that has served thousands of clients in Des Moines and across the state. Our Des Moines grandparents' rights lawyers understand the distress of such a situation. We can review your case and advise you of your legal options. We will work vigorously to help implement any options available to you through the court system.

Call Hope Law Firm today at (515) 305-2772 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our grandparents rights attorney in Des Moines!

What Legal Rights Are Available to Grandparents in Iowa?

Iowa offers grandparents the right to visitation or child custody in certain situations.

In order to achieve visitation rights, you must petition the court.

Depending on the situation, you must demonstrate the following:

  • That you and your grandchild have a substantial relationship
  • That it is in the best interests of the child for you to have visitation rights
  • That the child's custodial parent is not fit to decide whether or not you should be allowed to visit the child

Sometimes, parents lose their rights to their child(ren) when deemed unfit for the responsibility. This may be due to substance abuse, family abuse, neglect, illness, disability, financial insolvency, or other reasons. In these cases, grandparents may petition the courts for legal custody, providing sufficient evidence.

Understanding the Legal Process for Grandparents’ Rights in Iowa

Navigating the legal landscape surrounding grandparents' rights can be complex and challenging. When seeking visitation or custody, grandparents must follow a specific legal process involving filing a formal court petition. Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps involved:

  • File a Formal Petition: Submit a petition to the court outlining your request for visitation or custody.
  • Present Evidence: Gather and present relevant evidence to support your claim, including:
    • Documentation of the relationship (e.g., photographs, letters, and communication records)
    • Testimonies from family members that highlight the bond between you and your grandchild
  • Custody Evaluation: Be prepared for the possibility of a custody evaluation, where professionals assess the family dynamics and determine what is in the child's best interests.
  • Legal Guidance: Engage experienced legal counsel to help navigate the complexities of Iowa law and strengthen your case.

Understanding these steps is crucial for effectively advocating for your rights as a grandparent.

Contact Our Des Moines Grandparents' Rights Attorney Today

Whatever the issue regarding your family, Hope Law Firm will fight for you through the court system. Our Des Moines grandparents' rights lawyers understand how vital it is to provide stability and care to every child and to preserve the grandparent-grandchild relationship. We are committed to fighting for your rights concerning the grandchildren that you love.

Contact Hope Law Firm today to meet with our grandparents rights lawyer in Des Moines!

Why Hire Hope Law Firm?

  • We offer payment plans & flexible hours to meet your needs.
  • We treat you with compassion, honesty, dignity and respect.
  • We take an aggressive approach & have a proven track record.
  • We have a high success rate in handling complex divorce cases.