2015 Louisiana Laws
Civil Code
CC 136 - Award of visitation rights

Art. 136. Award of visitation rights

A. A parent not granted custody or joint custody of a child is entitled to reasonable visitation rights unless the court finds, after a hearing, that visitation would not be in the best interest of the child.

B. A grandparent may be granted reasonable visitation rights if the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child. Before making this determination, the court shall hold a contradictory hearing as provided for in R.S. 9:345 in order to determine whether the court should appoint an attorney to represent the child.

C. Under extraordinary circumstances, any other relative, by blood or affinity, or a former stepparent or stepgrandparent may be granted reasonable visitation rights if the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child. Extraordinary circumstances shall include a determination by a court that a parent is abusing a controlled dangerous substance.

D. In determining the best interest of the child under Paragraphs B and C of this Article, the court shall consider:

(1) The length and quality of the prior relationship between the child and the relative.

(2) Whether the child is in need of guidance, enlightenment, or tutelage which can best be provided by the relative.

(3) The preference of the child if he is determined to be of sufficient maturity to express a preference.

(4) The willingness of the relative to encourage a close relationship between the child and his parent or parents.

(5) The mental and physical health of the child and the relative.

E. In the event of a conflict between this Article and R.S. 9:344, the provisions of the statute shall supersede those of this Article.

Acts 1992, No. 782, §1; Acts 1993, No. 261, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1994; Acts 1995, No. 57, §1; Acts 2009, No. 379, §2; Acts 2012, No. 763, §1, eff. June 12, 2012; Acts 2014, No. 586, §1.