Bill > HB5673

This bill establishes a legal right for siblings to petition circuit or family courts for visitation with their minor child siblings, defining "child" as anyone under 18 who is not married or emancipated, and "sibling" broadly to include blood, half, step, and adoptive siblings who are at least 18 years old. The legislation emphasizes that the best interests of the minor child are paramount in all decisions regarding visitation, and outlines specific procedures for filing these petitions, whether or not a divorce, custody, or paternity case is already pending, with a provision for appointing a guardian ad litem to represent the child's interests. Courts will consider various factors, such as the child's age, the relationships involved, and the potential impact on the parent-child bond, when deciding on visitation, and can interview children privately. The bill also clarifies that family courts will have jurisdiction over these sibling visitation cases, alongside their existing responsibilities in matters like divorce, child support, and custody.

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http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5673&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill