I live in Iowa with my husband and 4-year-old son. My mom, who lives in Nebraska, has some mental health issues, and we recently had to stop her from seeing my son. I asked her to get help, but she refused and hired a lawyer to push for visitation. Does anyone know a good family lawyer in Iowa or Nebraska? Any advice would help. Thanks in advance!
You definitely need to document everything. In Iowa, grandparents can only request visitation if their own child (the parent) is deceased. Your mom might not have much of a case.
Finnley said:
You definitely need to document everything. In Iowa, grandparents can only request visitation if their own child (the parent) is deceased. Your mom might not have much of a case.
Thanks for sharing that. I’ve been trying to document everything she’s done, but it’s overwhelming. At least I know the laws are on our side.
Finnley said:
You definitely need to document everything. In Iowa, grandparents can only request visitation if their own child (the parent) is deceased. Your mom might not have much of a case.
What do you mean by ‘document everything’? Like keeping notes or something else?
@Aubrey
Yeah, keep notes of every interaction, save texts or emails, and jot down dates and incidents. It could be crucial if this goes to court.
Nebraska laws wouldn’t apply to you since you live in Iowa. Your mom would have to file in Iowa, so focus on finding a lawyer there.
Vesper said:
Nebraska laws wouldn’t apply to you since you live in Iowa. Your mom would have to file in Iowa, so focus on finding a lawyer there.
That’s a relief to hear. I was worried we’d need a lawyer who could practice in both states.
Parents’ rights are usually prioritized, especially since you and your husband are in agreement. Find a lawyer experienced in contested custody cases. Also, consider asking them about filing a harassment order if she keeps showing up unannounced.
@Isla
Thanks for the suggestion. She came to my house yesterday without warning and was really upset. I might need to look into a harassment order too. 
Rowen said:
@Isla
Thanks for the suggestion. She came to my house yesterday without warning and was really upset. I might need to look into a harassment order too.
A harassment order sounds like a good move. Did she say anything threatening, or was it just emotional manipulation?
Rowen said:
@Isla
Thanks for the suggestion. She came to my house yesterday without warning and was really upset. I might need to look into a harassment order too.
It was mostly emotional manipulation, but it felt really intense. I don’t want my son around that.
I had a similar situation with my grandma years ago. She won visitation rights after my mom withheld us. Grandparents can have rights, depending on the circumstances.
Lael said:
I had a similar situation with my grandma years ago. She won visitation rights after my mom withheld us. Grandparents can have rights, depending on the circumstances.
That’s interesting. Do you know if the parents were in agreement in your case? In most states, that makes a big difference.
People really need to look up their state laws on grandparent rights. Google your state’s specific guidelines for clarity.
Zaria said:
People really need to look up their state laws on grandparent rights. Google your state’s specific guidelines for clarity.
Good point. I’ve been reading up on Iowa’s laws and feel a bit more confident now.