MS HB962

Allows grandparents not covered under existing custody/termination provisions to petition chancery court for visitation rights with their grandchildren.

Requires courts to find that grandparents established a "viable relationship" with the child and that the parent or custodian unreasonably denied visitation before granting rights.

Defines "viable relationship" as: financial support for at least 6 months, frequent visitation including overnight visits for at least 1 year, or significant caregiving during parent's incarceration or military duty.

Requires grandparent petitions to be filed in the county where a custody order was previously entered, or in the child's county of residence if no custody order exists.

Changes attorney's fees provisions to allow courts discretionary authority to award reasonable fees to the prevailing party, removing mandatory advance fee payment requirements.