CT HB05212

Repeals and replaces Section 46b-59 to establish grandparent and great-grandparent visitation rights in Superior Court, effective October 1, 2018.

Requires petitioners to prove by clear and convincing evidence that a parent-like relationship exists with the child and that denial of visitation would cause real and significant harm (defined as neglect or being uncared for).

Creates a separate streamlined process for grandparent petitions when at least one parent is deceased, parents are divorced, or parents live separately, requiring proof that parents are unreasonably depriving visitation (including denying it for over 90 days) and that either parents are unfit or compelling circumstances exist.

Court must consider factors including length of relationship, parent-like activities, parental absence or death, fitness of both grandparent and custodial parent, and for grandparents specifically, history of regular contact and close relationship.

Visitation grants do not create parental rights, do not restrict parental relocation, and may be terminated by future court orders; court may award attorney fees and expert costs based on financial ability.