Grandparents’ Rights Lawyer in Fort Worth
Grandparents’ Rights: Visitation and Conservatorship Petitions
Grandparents’ rights cases aren’t simply a variation of a parental custody dispute. Under Texas family law, grandparents who seek possession, access, or conservatorship of a grandchild must meet standing requirements and overcome legal presumptions that don’t apply in standard parental proceedings. At Turner-Monahan, PLLC, we’ve guided Fort Worth families through these distinct legal challenges since 1973.
Our grandparents’ rights lawyers in Fort Worth build a custom strategy around your specific circumstances. Whether you’re seeking court-ordered visitation or asking to be named a conservator, we serve as your legal navigators from the first conversation through resolution.
If a grandchild’s safety or well-being is at stake, don’t wait to get answers. Call (817) 623-0129 to schedule a consultation with our Fort Worth grandparents’ rights attorneys.
Why Fort Worth Grandparents Choose Turner-Monahan, PLLC
These cases can be emotionally charged and legally demanding. You need an attorney who knows how Texas courts handle grandparent petitions and isn’t afraid to take a contested matter to trial. Attorney Tyler Monahan has been named a Top Attorney in Family Law by Fort Worth Magazine for six consecutive years, including 2025, and a Rising Star by Texas Monthly Magazine for three consecutive years. That recognition reflects years of real courtroom and negotiation work on behalf of North Texas families.
Our firm has resolved more than 1,000 cases and earned over 200 client reviews, backed by 70-plus years of combined legal practice. When your situation calls for a fight, we’re prepared to see it through rather than settle for an outcome that may fall short of your goals.
-
"After my injury, they were the only law firm where a real local person answered the phone."This told me I would get the personal service I needed, and they went above and beyond my expectations. They got me the appointments I needed, explained any questions I had, and were always there to help. Some days were not easy for them, considering I was an emotional wreck after my injury, but they handled everything with care and reassured me until I felt better. They are truly an amazing law firm that provides great personal service.- Rae L.
-
"He over-delivered and we couldn't be happier."Tyler was Awesome! He kept in contact, answering emails and any questions we had. He let us know the process, and what to expect. He wasn't wrong. He even negotiated with my ex since she was without attorney and dealt with all the crazy with no complaints. His staff was also very professional and friendly, always helpful. I really liked that he had set pricing, not by the hour, so that at each stage we knew what the bill was going to be. That may not work in every case, but for ours it was great.- Rodney S.
-
"They are a wonderful professional team that will provide you with excellent personal service during your case."I highly recommend you contact the team at Turner-Monahan for your legal advice. If you need attorneys who are professional and really care about their clients, you will be happy with Turner-Monahan!- Pamela H.
-
"They kept me informed and made sure that I was stress free every step of the way."Matt and team were amazing to work with. Their fees were reasonable. I would 10/10 recommend and if I am ever in need again I know who to call.- Alaquanesia T.
-
"Tyler and Jamie were exceptional in their services, showing professionalism, empathy, and expertise throughout my case."Jamie's clear communication, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving the best outcome were evident at every step. They skillfully navigated complex legal challenges, ensuring our well-being and confidence in every decision.- Celina L.
-
"Tyler Monahan has been representing me for about four years now."Highly recommend this firm! His confidence and expertise has given me the confidence to face my legal challenges head on and I believe we’ve always come through with the best possible outcomes!- Kenny L.
Texas Grandparent Visitation: The Significant-Impairment Standard
Texas doesn’t give grandparents an automatic right to visit their grandchildren. Courts begin with the presumption that a fit parent acts in their child’s best interest, including decisions about who the child spends time with. To obtain court-ordered possession or access (the Texas terms for visitation), a grandparent must overcome that presumption.
Under Texas Family Code Section 153.432, a biological or adoptive grandparent may petition the court for possession of or access to a grandchild. Prevailing on that petition requires showing that denying access would significantly impair the child’s physical health or emotional well-being, a higher bar than simply demonstrating a close relationship.
Eligibility to file also requires meeting specific threshold conditions:
- One biological or adoptive parent must still hold parental rights at the time of the petition
- The parent whose side of the family supports the request must be incarcerated for at least three months, found by a court to be incompetent, deceased, or currently without actual or court-ordered possession of or access to the child
If those conditions aren’t met, the petition won’t survive a preliminary challenge. Understanding which circumstances apply to your family is where we start.
Grandparent Conservatorship: Seeking Custody in Texas
Conservatorship is the Texas term for what most people call custody. A grandparent seeking to be named a conservator faces a different standing analysis than a parent would, and the burden is significant.
Two of the most common paths to standing include:
- Six-month residency: The grandchild lived with the grandparent for at least six months, ending no more than 90 days before the petition is filed
- Impairment of development: The grandparent can show the child’s physical or emotional development is being impaired by the parents’ current care or living situation
A court may also consider conservatorship when both parents agree the child should live with the grandparent. In every scenario, the grandparent must overcome the constitutional presumption that a fit parent has the right to make decisions for their child. That’s not an insurmountable standard, but it requires a well-prepared case built on specific, credible evidence.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Grandparents’ Rights Lawyer in Fort Worth
We start every new matter the same way: by listening. Before recommending any course of action, we take time to understand what matters most to you and what outcome you’re working toward. Our rates are competitive and clearly structured, so you’ll know what to expect from the start.
Call (817) 623-0129 or contact us online to discuss your situation with our grandparents’ rights lawyer in Fort Worth.
frequently asked questions
-
What’s the first step in hiring a criminal defense lawyer?Contact our firm for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your case, explain your rights, and outline the best defense strategy for your situation.
-
Can I be charged with a crime even if the alleged victim doesn’t press charges?Yes. In many cases, the prosecution can proceed with charges regardless of the victim’s wishes, particularly in domestic violence cases.
-
How does a criminal record affect my ability to own a firearm in Texas?Convicted felons lose their right to possess firearms, and certain misdemeanors may also lead to restrictions. Expungement or legal action may help restore your rights.
-
Back to School and Co-Parenting: How to Navigate Custody Arrangements When the School Year StartsFamily LawRead Article -
A Client's Story: How Turner-Monahan, PLLC Turned a Roofing Dispute AroundRead Article
-
The Dangers of Distracted and Impaired Driving in Texas: What Injury Victims Should KnowCar Accident, Personal InjuryRead Article
-
From Thirteen “No’s” To One Life-Changing “Yes”Personal Injury, Personal Injury LawRead Article
-
Child Custody and Summer Schedules: What Texas Parents Need to KnowChild Custody, Family LawRead Article
-
April 2026 Client Story: Above & Beyond For You!Car AccidentRead Article
Focused.
Results. A legacy of
advocacy that
began in 1973
