Child custody and parenting time

Grandparents and other relatives

Each state has its own law on when grandparents or relatives can ask for visits or custody.

In Troxel v. Granville (2000), the U.S. Supreme Court said parents have a basic right to make decisions about raising their children. When a fit parent decides who visits the child, a court must give that choice special weight.
The Court did not strike down all grandparent visitation laws. It ruled on how Washington's very broad law was used in that case.
Each state has its own law on when grandparents or other relatives can ask for visitation or custody. See your state page.

Your state's rules for grandparents

Last checked: November 2026