Do grandparents have visitation rights in Utah?: 10 Quick Questions Answered

Yes, Utah law gives grandparents the right to ask for court-ordered visitation with grandchildren in some situations. However, courts don’t automatically grant this—grandparents must prove that visitation is in the child’s best interest and meets strict legal standards. The main law is Utah Code § 30-5-2.

Utah judges look at several factors, including: the existing relationship between grandparent and grandchild, whether a parent is deceased, the wishes of any surviving parent, and whether denying visitation would cause harm. The court’s top priority is always the child’s best interest.

• Was the grandparent involved in the child’s life?
• Why is visitation being denied?
• Has there been a disruption in parental care (like death or divorce)?

No, Utah does not grant automatic visitation to grandparents. Parents generally have the right to decide who sees their children. Only if a judge finds that contact with grandparents is needed to prevent harm or serve the child’s interests can visitation be ordered (Utah Code § 30-5-2).

Common scenarios include:

• The death of one or both parents
• A major family dispute, like divorce or a custody battle
• Estrangement between the parent and child or the grandparent

If you’re in Provo, Ogden, St. George, or anywhere else in Utah, you must show a strong, positive relationship with your grandchild — and that being cut off would cause real harm.

1. Gather evidence of your relationship with your grandchild (photos, messages, school events, etc.).
2. File a “Petition for Visitation Rights” at your local Utah district court.
3. Attend a court hearing and present your case.
4. The judge will review Utah law and decide based on the child’s best interests.

Visit the Utah Courts Grandparent Visitation page for forms and more details.

If you believe you’re being unfairly blocked from seeing your grandchild in Salt Lake City, Logan, or elsewhere, you can ask the court for visitation. But, Utah law gives parents strong rights. You must show that visitation is needed to avoid harm—not just that visits would be “nice to have.” For urgent situations, consider consulting a Utah family law attorney familiar with local courts.

Yes. Court-ordered visits must fit the child’s schedule, health, and family dynamics. Utah courts won’t grant unlimited access or “grandparent custody” except in rare cases (like unfit parents). All visitation orders can be reviewed if circumstances change.

Yes—either parent or grandparent can ask to modify or end court-ordered grandparent visits if circumstances change. For example, if the child’s needs shift, or if the relationship breaks down, Utah courts may review and decide what’s best.

Utah courts respect parents’ rights very seriously. If parents object to grandparent visits, grandparents must overcome a “rebuttable presumption” favoring the parent’s wishes. You’ll need to demonstrate—using clear evidence—that visits are truly necessary for the child’s well-being.

Only biological grandparents or those with legal adoption status can seek visitation under Utah Code § 30-5-2. Step-grandparents or other relatives usually do not have these rights unless the court finds extraordinary circumstances. Always double-check your situation with a Utah attorney.

• Document your relationship: Keep friendly messages, photos, and proof of child involvement.
• Communicate respectfully: Try to resolve issues with parents directly first.
• Get legal help early: Utah family law attorneys can help you navigate paperwork and local courts.