Advocating for Grandparents, Stepparents, and Loved Ones Dallas Divorce Lawyer Protecting Non-Parental Rights to Custody and Visitation

Portrait Of Loving Grandparents Hugging Grandson

In today’s world, families come in many forms—and so do the bonds that children form with the adults who love and care for them. Grandparents, stepparents, same-sex partners, extended relatives, and other non-parents often play critical roles in a child’s life. But when parents separate, divorce, or face legal challenges, these relationships can be disrupted or severed, often leaving the child—and the adult they depend on—without recourse.

Texas law recognizes that under certain circumstances, non-parent caregivers and relatives may have the right to pursue custody or visitation when it serves the best interests of the child. Whether you are a grandparent seeking visitation, a stepparent who has raised a child as your own, or another adult with a deep emotional connection to a child, you may have legal standing to assert your rights.

John Polk is a seasoned Dallas family law attorney with a strong track record of protecting the rights of non-parents in complex family law cases. He understands the legal nuances of third-party custody and visitation claims and will work diligently to advocate for your relationship with the child.

You may have grounds to pursue custody or visitation if:

  • You have served as a primary caregiver or consistent parental figure

  • You are a grandparent concerned about the child’s safety or stability

  • The child’s biological parents are absent, unfit, or unwilling to provide care

  • You have had actual care, control, and possession of the child for a substantial period

  • You have an emotional bond critical to the child’s well-being and development

These cases can be legally complex and emotionally charged, especially when challenging a parent’s rights. Success often depends on demonstrating that your continued presence in the child’s life is not only valuable—but necessary for their best interests.

John will guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and strategic focus. Whether you're responding to a custody dispute, intervening in a divorce case, or seeking formal rights after years of caregiving, he will fight to protect the relationship you’ve built and the child you love.

WE CAN HELP. LET'S TALK.

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