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In the state of California, the complexities surrounding family law are vast and multifaceted, especially when it concerns the rights of grandparents to visitation with their grandchildren. Recognizing this, the California SB 11290 form serves as a crucial legal document for grandparents seeking visitation rights, carving a path through the legal framework to establish a connection with their grandchildren under certain circumstances. This form, officially titled "Petition for Grandparent Visitation," is geared towards situations where grandparents feel it is essential to maintain a relationship with their grandchildren for the children's best interest, despite the dynamics that might exist within the parents' marital status, living arrangements, or legal disputes concerning custody. The form meticulously collects pertinent information about the petitioner, the child or children in question, and the basis on which the petition is made, including the nature of the existing relationship and the proposed visitation arrangement. Grounds for petitioning include a variety of conditions such as divorce, separation of the parents, incarceration, or even the absence of a parent, alongside a declared preexisting relationship between grandchild and grandparent that justifies the need for such visits. Additionally, the document outlines the requirement for a declaration under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act if no family law case currently exists, thereby establishing a legal basis for new actions in pursuit of visitation rights. Furthermore, it brings attention to the delicate balance the court must maintain between the rights of the parents and the child's interest in grandparent visitation, highlighting the conditions under which visitation might not be deemed in the best interest of the child. Equally, it notes the procedural necessities such as consent from parents where applicable and the manners of service necessary to advance the petition. Introduced in Revised August 2020, the SB 11290 form embodies a critical legal instrument for grandparents navigating the complexities of maintaining their bonds with grandchildren amidst challenging family dynamics.

Document Preview Example

PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY OR PARTY

STATE BAR NUMBER:

NAME:

 

 

FIRM NAME:

 

 

STREET ADDRESS:

 

 

CITY:

STATE:

ZIP CODE:

TELEPHONE NO.:

FAX NO.:

 

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

 

 

ATTORNEY FOR (name):

 

 

SUPERIOR COURTS OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO

STREET ADDRESS:

MAILING ADDRESSS:

CITY AND ZIP CODE:

BRANCH NAME:

PETITIONER:

RESPONDENT:

OTHER PARENT/PARTY:

CASE NUMBER:

PETITION FOR GRANDPARENT VISITATION

1. Petitioner is the □

Maternal - □ grandmother

□ grandfather of the minor child(ren) listed below.

Paternal - □ grandmother

□ grandfather of the minor child(ren) listed below.

Name of child

Date of

birth

Person child lives with/

County of residence

Other parent’s name

Additional children named on “Attachment, No. 1” (or form _________)

2.An action is currently pending in (County) ___________________, (State) __________________

involving child custody and visitation in case number: _____________________________

a.□ No judgment has been entered; or

b.□ A judgment was entered on (date)_____________

3.Petitioner is bringing this petition forth because (mark all that apply):

a.□ The parents are not married to each other or in a registered domestic partnership, or

The parents of the child(ren) are divorced.

b. □ The parents are married to each other and one or more of the following exist:

The parents are currently involved in a divorce proceeding in ________________ County.

The parents are currently living separately and apart on a permanent or indefinite basis.

One of the parents has been absent for more than one month without the other parent knowing the whereabouts of the absent parent.

One of the parents joins in this petition with the grandparent(s) as shown by the signature of the parent below.

The child(ren) are not residing with either parent.

The child(ren) have been adopted by a stepparent.

One of the parents of the child(ren) is incarcerated or involuntarily institutionalized.

Form No. SB-11290 Adopted for Optional Use www.sb-court.org

PETITION FOR GRANDPARENT VISITATION

Page 1 of 2

Family Code, §§3100-3104

Revised August 2020

4.There is a preexisting relationship and bond between the child(ren) and grandparent(s). Explain the reason why grandparent visitation is in the best interest of each child: _____________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

See “Attachment, No. 4” (or form _________)

5.Describe the proposed visitation schedule:_____ _________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

See “Attachment, No. 5” (or form _________)

6.□ A completed Declaration Under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

(FL-105) form is submitted as there is no existing family law case. This petition shall start a new matter.

7.Petitioner requests that the Court grant reasonable visitation with the above-named child(ren) and such other relief as the Court deems appropriate pursuant to Family Code sections 3100 through 3104.

A Request for Order (FL-300 form) is concurrently filed with this petition in order to request a hearing date. (Note: A Request for Order cannot be filed until after a party has been joined to the case)

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing and all attachments are true and correct.

Date:

 

________________________________

_________________________________________________

TYPE OR PRINT NAME

SIGNATURE OF PETITIONER

________________________________

_________________________________________________

TYPE OR PRINT NAME

SIGNATURE OF PETITIONER

________________________________

_________________________________________________

TYPE OR PRINT NAME

SIGNATURE OF ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER(S)

PARENT’S CONSENT TO PETITION FOR GRANDPARENT VISITATION

I hereby consent to and join this Petition for Grandparent Visitation.

Date:

________________________________

_________________________________________________

TYPE OR PRINT NAME

SIGNATURE OF MOTHER FATHER OF CHILD(REN)

NOTICE: The Court shall balance the interests of the child in having grandparent visits against the rights of the parents.

A rebuttable presumption against best interests/visitation is created:

1.If the parents agree that visitation is not in the best interests of the child(ren), or

2.If the parent awarded sole legal and physical custody (or with whom the child resides if no custody order) objects.

SERVICE: Personal service is required unless this petition is filed in an existing case. If filed in an existing case, service is completed by certified mail, return receipt to the last known address of parents, stepparent or person with physical custody of the child(ren). (See Family Code sections 3103(c) and 3104(c).)

Form No. SB-11290 Adopted for Optional Use www.sb-court.org

PETITION FOR GRANDPARENT VISITATION

Page 2 of 2

Family Code, §§3100-3104

Revised August 2020

Document Specs

Fact Description
Form Number SB-11290
Purpose Petition for Grandparent Visitation
Governing Law California Family Code, §§3100-3104
Applicability Superior Courts of California, County of San Bernardino
Revision Date August 2020
Who Can File Maternal or Paternal Grandmother or Grandfather
Critical Requirements Preexisting relationship and bond between the grandchildren and grandparents; Visitation is in the best interest of each child.
Service Method Personal service or by certified mail, return receipt in existing cases
Parental Objection A rebuttable presumption against the best interests/visitation arises if both parents agree visitation is not in the child's best interests or if the parent awarded sole custody objects.

Detailed Instructions for Writing California Sb 11290

Filling out the California SB-11290 form is a critical step for grandparents seeking visitation rights with their grandchildren. This process can seem complex, but breaking it down step-by-step can simplify the experience. The form itself is designed to capture all necessary information to facilitate a legal petition for grandparent visitation rights under specific circumstances. As you proceed, ensure all details are accurate and complete, providing a strong foundation for your petition.

  1. At the top of the form, under "PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY OR PARTY STATE BAR NUMBER," fill in your personal information, including your name, firm name (if applicable), street address, city, state, zip code, telephone number, fax number, and email address.
  2. In the "ATTORNEY FOR (name)" section, if you are representing yourself, write "self-represented" or if you have an attorney, include their name.
  3. Under "SUPERIOR COURTS OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO," provide the street and mailing addresses, city and zip code, and branch name of the court.
  4. Indicate your relationship to the child or children as either maternal or paternal grandmother or grandfather by checking the appropriate box.
  5. For each child you are seeking visitation with, list their name, date of birth, the person they currently live with, their county of residence, and the other parent’s name.
  6. If there are additional children involved who are not listed on the first page, use “Attachment, No. 1” or another form if specified, to include their information.
  7. Check the appropriate box to indicate if an action involving child custody and visitation is currently pending, and provide the county, state, and case number. If a judgment has been entered, specify the date.
  8. Select the reasons that apply to why you are bringing forth this petition.
  9. Explain the existing relationship and bond between the grandparents and grandchildren, and why grandparent visitation is in the best interests of each child. Use “Attachment, No. 4” if additional space is needed.
  10. Describe the proposed visitation schedule and use “Attachment, No. 5” for additional space if necessary.
  11. If there is no existing family law case, check the box stating that a completed Declaration Under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (FL-105) is submitted, initiating a new case.
  12. Sign and date the petition, declaring under penalty of perjury that the information provided and all attachments are true and correct. Print your name below your signature.
  13. If one of the parents agrees to the petition for visitation, have them fill out the “PARENT’S CONSENT TO PETITION FOR GRANDPARENT VISITATION” section, providing their signature, printed name, and date.

Once completed, carefully review every section of the form to ensure all information is accurate and no sections have been missed. The submission of this form to the appropriate court marks the beginning of the legal process for establishing grandparent visitation rights. Remember, additional forms or documentation may be required, so ensure you are familiar with the full requirements for your specific situation. Proceeding with clarity and careful attention to detail will be key in navigating this process successfully.

Things to Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the California SB-11290 form?

The California SB-11290 form is designed for use in the Superior Courts of California, specifically in San Bernardino County, to petition for grandparent visitation rights. It provides a legal avenue for grandparents to request reasonable visitation with their grandchildren under specific circumstances. The form outlines the necessary information and statements that the petitioner must provide, including their relationship to the child, the current status of the child's custody, and why grandparent visitation is in the child's best interest. This petition can be brought forth under various conditions, such as when the parents are not married or in a domestic partnership, divorced, living separately, or if one parent is absent, incarcerated, or involuntarily institutionalized. The ultimate goal of this form is to establish a visitation schedule that serves the best interest of the child while considering the family's circumstances.

Who can file a Petition for Grandparent Visitation using the SB-11290 form?

A petition using the SB-11290 form can be filed by either the maternal or paternal grandmother or grandfather who wishes to establish visitation rights with their grandchild(ren). The petitioner must have a preexisting relationship and bond with the child(ren) and believe that visitation with them is in the child's best interests. Additionally, certain circumstances regarding the child's living situation or parental status, as outlined in the form, need to be met for a grandparent to file this petition.

What conditions must be met to file for grandparent visitation rights?

  1. The parents of the child(ren) are not married to each other or are divorced.
  2. The parents are married but living separately on a permanent or indefinite basis.
  3. One of the parents has been absent for more than one month without the whereabouts known by the other parent.
  4. One of the parents joins in the petition with the grandparent(s).
  5. The child(ren) are not residing with either parent, have been adopted by a stepparent, or one of the parents is incarcerated or involuntarily institutionalized.

Additionally, it must be established that there is a significant preexisting relationship between the grandparent(s) and the child(ren), and that visitation is in the best interest of the child(ren).

What are the steps after filing the petition?

After the Petition for Grandparent Visitation is filed using the SB-11290 form, several steps follow:

  • Service of the Petition: The petition must be served personally unless it is filed in an existing case. If filed in an existing case, service can be completed by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the last known address of the parents, stepparent, or person with physical custody of the child(ren).
  • Response Period: After service, the respondent(s) have a period within which to respond to the petition.
  • Hearing Date: If a Request for Order (FL-300 form) is filed concurrently with the SB-11290 form, a hearing date will be set. This hearing is an opportunity for both parties to present their arguments to the court.
  • Court Decision: The court will balance the interests of the child in having visits with their grandparent(s) against the rights of the parents. A presumption against visitation is created if the parents agree that visitation is not in the child's best interest or if the child resides with a parent who objects and no custody order exists.

Common mistakes

Filling out legal forms correctly is crucial to ensure that your documents are processed efficiently and without delay. The California SB 11290 form, which is used for petitioning for grandparent visitation rights, is no exception. There are common mistakes people often make when completing this form, which can potentially hinder their petition. Understanding and avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve the chances of achieving the desired outcome.

  1. Not specifying the relationship accurately. One common mistake is incorrectly marking or failing to mark whether the petitioner is the maternal or paternal grandparent of the child(ren) involved. This detail is essential for the clarity of the petition and helps the court understand the familial relationship dynamics at play.

  2. Leaving out detailed information about existing legal matters. Another frequent oversight occurs in the section that asks if an action is currently pending (such as custody or divorce proceedings) involving the child. It's imperative to provide all requested details, including case numbers and the status of any judgments. Omitting these details can lead to delays or the petition being dismissed due to insufficient information.

  3. Failing to explain the preexisting relationship and bond. The form requires a petitioner to detail the existing bond and relationship between the grandparent(s) and the child(ren), as well as why visitation is in the best interest of the child(ren). Being too brief or vague in this section weakens the petition, as the court uses this information to assess the merit of granting visitation rights.

  4. Incomplete information on the proposed visitation schedule. Often, petitioners do not provide a clear and detailed proposed visitation schedule. This lack of specificity can create confusion and potentially result in a less favorable arrangement. It's beneficial to clearly outline proposed dates, times, and locations for visitation to help the court make an informed decision.

By paying close attention to detail and avoiding these common errors, petitioners can strengthen their case for grandparent visitation rights. Accurate, comprehensive information not only aids the court in making a decision but also demonstrates the petitioner's commitment and seriousness about being involved in the child's life. Always review your form at least twice or seek legal assistance to ensure all sections are filled out correctly and completely.

Documents used along the form

When filing a Petition for Grandparent Visitation in California, particularly with form SB-11290, navigating the legal landscape requires attention to detail and an understanding of accompanying forms and documents that might be necessary. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring the court fully understands the context and specifics of your unique situation, influencing decisions regarding visitation rights.

  • Declaration Under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) - Form FL-105: This form provides the court with crucial information regarding the jurisdiction over the child's custody matters. It is required for cases where there is no existing family law case, laying the foundation for legal proceedings regarding children.
  • Request for Order (RFO) - Form FL-300: Accompanying a petition, this form allows a party to request a court hearing for various issues, including visitation rights. It outlines the specific orders you are requesting, ensuring the court addresses your needs directly during the hearing.
  • Income and Expense Declaration - Form FL-150: Though not always directly related to grandparent visitation cases, this form might be required if financial considerations play a role in the visitation or custodial arrangements, or if attorney’s fees are requested.
  • Proof of Service - Form FL-330 or FL-335: After filing a petition, the court requires proof that all relevant parties were notified. Form FL-330 (Proof of Personal Service) or FL-335 (Proof of Service by Mail) verifies that the documentation was delivered to involved parties in the manner prescribed by law.

The correct usage and submission of these forms alongside the California SB-11290 form can significantly influence the outcome of a Petition for Grandparent Visitation. By ensuring that all paperwork is appropriately filled out, filed, and served, petitioners can provide the court with a comprehensive view of their request, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable decision. Understanding each document’s role within the broader legal context is crucial for navigating this sensitive and complex process effectively.

Similar forms

The California Judicial Council Form FL-300, Request for Order, shares similarities with the SB-11290 form, particularly in its initiatory purpose within family law disputes. Like the SB-11290, the FL-300 serves as a means for individuals to request the court's intervention on matters such as child custody, visitation (including grandparent visitation), and child support. Both forms necessitate detailed personal and case information and allow petitioners to outline the specific orders they seek from the court. However, the FL-300 form encompasses a broader range of family law issues beyond grandparent visitation.

The California Judicial Council Form FL-105, Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), although specifically related to establishing jurisdiction over child custody matters, parallels the SB-11290 in terms of providing crucial case details. It is often used alongside other family law forms, including the SB-11290, to ensure that the court possesses all necessary information to make informed decisions regarding custody and visitation rights. The requirement to fill out the FL-105 form when there is no existing family law case highlights both forms' roles in the comprehensive legal process required to address child-related matters.

The California FL-310, Temporary Orders, form also bears resemblance to the SB-11290 form by offering a mechanism through which immediate and temporary relief can be sought in family law cases, including but not limited to, custody, visitation, and support. While the SB-11290 primarily addresses the establishment of grandparent visitation rights, the FL-310 allows for a wider scope of temporary solutions during the pendency of a case. Both forms play critical roles in enabling parties to petition the court for provisional measures that protect their interests and the welfare of the child involved.

Form FL-160, Property Declaration, although primarily focused on the disclosure of assets and liabilities in the context of dissolution of marriage or legal separation, shares the foundational concept of providing the court with detailed information to make a well-informed decision. The SB-11290 necessitates detailed information on the petitioner, the child, and the nature of the requested visitation, much like how the FL-160 requires detailed listings of property and debts. Both entail comprehensive disclosures for judicial consideration, highlighting the importance of transparency and thoroughness in different legal contexts.

The Declaration Regarding Service of Declaration of Disclosure (Form FL-141) also parallels the SB-11290 in its procedural role within family law cases. This form is used to confirm that parties have exchanged their mandatory financial disclosures, a critical step in proceedings concerning division of property, child support, and spousal support. Although serving a different purpose, the completion and filing of the FL-141, like the SB-11290, are procedural steps that ensure fairness and informed decision-making by providing the court with essential information relevant to the case.

Finally, the Application and Order for Health Insurance Coverage (Form FL-192) is somewhat akin to the SB-11290 in terms of its specific focus within a broader legal area. The FL-192 pertains specifically to the provision of health insurance for a child in family law cases, emphasizing the court's concern with the child's wellbeing, similar to how grandparent visitation rights are considered in the SB-11290. Both forms address particular aspects of a child's welfare within the domain of family law, reflecting the court's multifaceted approach to ensuring a child's overall well-being.

In summary, while each of these forms serves distinct purposes within family law, they collectively underscore the importance of providing detailed information to the court. Whether addressing financial matters, custody, visitation rights, or the child's health and welfare, each form facilitates a specific aspect of the legal process, ensuring that courts can make decisions that are in the best interest of the child and fair to all parties involved.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the California SB 11290 form, a document dedicated to petitioning for grandparent visitation rights, requires careful attention to detail and an understanding of the legal process. To facilitate this procedure while minimizing potential errors or legal oversights, here is a list of suggested do's and don'ts:

Do:

  1. Read through the entire form before starting to fill it out, ensuring you understand each section and its requirements.

  2. Provide accurate and truthful information for every section to avoid any legal implications of perjury.

  3. Include all necessary attachments, such as "Attachment No. 1" for additional children or any other forms requested in certain sections.

  4. Use black ink or type your responses to ensure that all information is legible and clear.

  5. Sign and date the form as indicated, which is a critical step to validate the petition.

  6. Keep a copy of the filled-out form and all attachments for your records before submitting the original to the court.

  7. Consult with a legal professional if you have questions or need guidance on completing the form accurately.

Don't:

  1. Leave any section blank unless it explicitly does not apply to your situation; if uncertain, seek legal advice.

  2. Omit any supporting documents that may strengthen your petition or are required according to the instructions.

  3. Ignore the legal requirements for serving the petition on the parents or guardians of the child, as improper service may delay or invalidate your petition.

  4. Underestimate the importance of clearly explaining the basis for the petition, including the existence of a bond with the grandchild and why visitation is in the child's best interest.

  5. Assume consent from the parent(s) without obtaining a signed and dated consent form where applicable.

  6. Submit the form without reviewing all entered information and verifying that it is complete and accurate.

  7. Disregard the court's instructions on personal service or the use of certified mail, return receipt requested, if filing in an existing case.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about the California SB 11290 form, commonly used for petitions for grandparent visitation rights. Understanding these misconceptions can clarify the process and legal considerations involved.

  • Misconception 1: The form is only for grandparents seeking visitation rights with their grandchildren. While it's true that the form is designed for this purpose, it also allows for the detailing of a preexisting relationship and bond between the child(ren) and grandparent(s), showcasing why visitation is in the best interest of the child(ren).

  • Misconception 2: If the parents are married, grandparents cannot file for visitation rights. The form actually specifies situations under which grandparents can petition for visitation even if the parents are married, including divorces, separations, or if one parent joins the petition.

  • Misconception 3: The petition for grandparent visitation is only valid if there is no existing family law case. Grandparents can file this petition even if there is an ongoing case, and if there isn’t, filling out the form starts a new matter.

  • Misconception 4: The court will automatically grant visitation rights to grandparents once they file the form. The decision is based on whether the court deems visitation with the grandparents to be in the child(ren)'s best interest, balancing this against the rights of the parents.

  • Misconception 5: Parental consent is not required for the petition to be considered. While it's possible to file the petition without parental consent, the form provides a section for a parent to consent to and join the petition for grandparent visitation, potentially strengthening the case.

  • Misconception 6: Personal service of the petition is always required. While personal service is the standard method, if the petition is filed as part of an existing case, service can be completed by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the last known address of the parent, stepparent, or person with physical custody of the child(ren).

Correcting these misconceptions can help in properly navigating the legal process involved in petitioning for grandparent visitation rights in California, ensuring that all parties understand their rights and obligations.

Key takeaways

Understanding the California SB 11290 form, relating to grandparent visitation rights, is essential for families navigating through complex situations where grandparents seek legal permission to visit their grandchildren. Here are key takeaways regarding filling out and using this form:

  • Eligibility criteria: The form begins by identifying the petitioner's relationship to the child either as a paternal or maternal grandparent, highlighting the importance of establishing this legal connection upfront.
  • Current legal status: It is crucial to disclose any ongoing legal actions involving child custody and visitation, indicating whether a judgment has been entered. This information helps the court understand the context of the petition within existing family law cases.
  • Grounds for petitioning: The form outlines specific circumstances under which grandparents may file for visitation rights, such as divorce, separation of the parents, absence of a parent, or if the child isn't living with either parent. Clearly stating the reason is essential for the petition's success.
  • Relationship and bond: Demonstrating the pre-existing relationship and bond between the grandparent and the child is pivotal. The petitioner must explain why granting visitation is in the best interest of the child, requiring thoughtful and detailed justifications.
  • Visitation schedule proposal: Petitioners are asked to describe their proposed visitation schedule. This section allows grandparents to outline specific and reasonable requests for spending time with their grandchild, which can facilitate a smoother court review process.
  • Legal prerequisites: Submission of a completed Declaration Under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (if applicable) is a critical step for those starting a new family law matter with this petition. Complying with legal prerequisites ensures the petition is considered valid and can proceed.
  • Parental consent: If one of the parents consents to the petition, their signature must be included. This consent can significantly influence the court's decision, as it demonstrates a collaborative approach to deciding what is in the child’s best interests.
  • Understanding the court's perspective: The court must balance the child's interest in having visits with the grandparent against the parental rights. If both parents or the custodial parent objects to the visitation, a presumption against granting visitation is established. Recognizing this legal framework helps in preparing a petition that addresses potential concerns.
  • Service requirements: Proper service of the petition is required. In new cases, personal service is mandatory. However, if the petition is part of an existing case, it may be served by certified mail. Understanding the appropriate process for your situation is crucial for the petition to move forward.

Successfully navigating the petition process for grandparent visitation in California requires attention to detail, a clear understanding of the legal criteria, and compliance with procedural requirements. Keeping these key takeaways in mind can provide a solid foundation for those seeking visitation rights under the Family Code §§3100-3104.

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