Bill > H1534

This bill aims to establish grandparent visitation rights in Massachusetts. It defines a "grandparent" as a parent of one's father or mother. The bill outlines the conditions under which a grandparent can file an original action for visitation rights, such as when one or both parents are deceased, the parents' marriage has been dissolved, a parent has abandoned the child, or the child was born out of wedlock. The court will then determine if the visitation is in the best interest of the child, considering factors like the willingness of the grandparent to encourage a parent-child relationship and the mental and physical health of the child and grandparent. The bill also allows for the revocation or amendment of visitation rights and the appointment of a guardian ad litem for the child if the grandparent can bear the cost.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H1534