Loading chat...

ID S1122

Bill

Status

Engrossed

3/1/2011

Primary Sponsor

Unknown

Origin

Senate

2011 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Repeals existing Section 32-719 and replaces it with new grandparent and great-grandparent visitation rights provisions in Idaho Code Chapter 7, Title 32.

  • Allows grandparents and great-grandparents to petition for visitation when parents' marital relationship is severed by death, divorce, or legal separation; when unmarried parents have not subsequently married (with paternity requirements for paternal relatives); or when another state court has ordered visitation.

  • Requires petitioner to prove by clear and convincing evidence: a pre-existing relationship with the child that would benefit the child, that petitioner is fit and proper, and that visitation has been denied or unreasonably limited before court may grant visitation over objection of a fit parent.

  • Mandates courts consider all relevant factors including emotional ties, quality and length of prior relationship, mental and physical health of all parties, child's wishes if 12 years or older, petitioner's willingness to encourage parent-child relationship, and any history of abuse or neglect.

  • Prohibits visitation actions and voids previously granted visitation orders when child is subject to a pending child protection case; does not apply when parental rights have been terminated.

Legislative Description

Repeals and adds to existing law relating to grandparent visitation to provide for petitions for visitation with grandchildren by grandparents and great-grandparents; to provide that the court shall not grant visitation over the objection of a fit parent unless the petitioner shows specified factors by clear and convincing evidence; to provide for the consideration of all relevant factors in determining the best interests of the child; to provide for applicability; and to provide for those cases where the child is the subject of a pending child protection case.

GRANDPARENT VISITATION

Last Action

Ret'd to Jud

3/11/2011

Committee Referrals

Judiciary and Rules2/18/2011

Full Bill Text

No bill text available