MS HB1451

Amends Mississippi Code Section 93-16-3 to allow grandparents to petition for visitation rights whenever a court determines it would be in the best interest of the child, in addition to existing triggering events.

Grandparents not otherwise authorized to petition may seek visitation rights if they establish a "viable relationship" with the child and the parent or custodian unreasonably denied visitation.

Defines "viable relationship" as: financial support of the child for at least six months, frequent visitation including occasional overnight stays for at least one year, or significant caregiving during parent's incarceration or military duty.

Courts may direct grandparents to pay reasonable attorney's fees and court costs to parents in advance of hearing, unless the court finds such payment would cause financial hardship.

Effective date: July 1, 2013.