When Can Grandparents Get Court-Ordered Visitation in Nebraska?

Grandparents’ rights disputes can be heartbreaking, especially when a close bond with a grandchild is suddenly cut off after a divorce, death, or family conflict. But in Nebraska, court-ordered grandparent visitation is the exception, not the rule. Grandparents don’t have automatic visitation rights. Instead, they can usually file only in narrow “trigger” situations under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 43-1802, and even then they must prove a strict three-part test by clear and convincing evidence—including that a significant beneficial relationship exists, that continued contact is in the child’s best interests, and that visitation will not adversely interfere with the parent-child relationship. Just as importantly, courts must give “special weight” to a fit parent’s decision about visitation, meaning a judge can’t order visits simply because they seem like a good idea. This guide explains when grandparents can file, what Nebraska courts actually look for, and practical steps for both grandparents and parents before anyone heads to court.