Grandparent Visitation in West Bend, WI

Losing access to your grandchildren can be heartbreaking — especially when the separation is caused by family conflict, divorce, or the loss of a loved one. Wisconsin law recognizes the important role grandparents and other caregivers play in a child’s life. If you’re being denied the opportunity to maintain that relationship, the Law Office of Sallie L. Rubenzer can help you explore your options for securing visitation rights.


You don’t have to face this alone. Reach out today to learn whether pursuing grandparent visitation is the right step for your family.

Make Your Case for Visitation

Gavel and Lady Justice statue next to wooden blocks spelling

When a child’s parents have been married, Wisconsin law requires you to meet three key criteria before the court will consider granting visitation. You must show:


  • The parents were married and are either divorced or currently going through a divorce
  • You have legal standing, meaning you are a grandparent, great‑grandparent, stepparent, or someone who has maintained a relationship similar to a parent‑child relationship
  • Visitation is in the child’s best interests, supported by statutory factors such as emotional ties, stability, and the child’s well‑being



Attorney Sallie L. Rubenzer helps you understand these requirements and prepares the evidence needed to demonstrate why continued contact benefits the child.

Visitation in Paternity Cases

A separation agreement document, pen, glasses, ink stamp, and books on a wooden desk.

The rules differ when the child’s parents were never married and the child has not been adopted. In these cases, grandparents may petition for visitation if:


  • You have previously developed a relationship with the child or
  • You made genuine attempts to build a relationship
  • Additionally, you must show:
  • Visitation is in the child’s best interests
  • You are not likely to act against the decisions of the child’s parent or legal guardian


Attorney Rubenzer guides you through these requirements and helps you present a strong, well‑supported petition.

Understanding Legal Standing

Before the court considers visitation, it must determine whether you have the legal right — known as standing — to file a petition. You may have standing if you are:



  • A grandparent
  • A great‑grandparent
  • A stepparent
  • A person who has maintained a relationship similar to a parent‑child relationship

Once standing is established, the court evaluates whether visitation supports the child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs.

Proving the Child’s Best Interests

Wisconsin courts rely on several statutory factors to determine whether visitation is appropriate. These may include:



  • The child’s relationship with the petitioner
  • The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
  • The wishes of the child, depending on age and maturity
  • The stability and consistency of the relationship
  • Any history of conflict or concerns regarding safety

Attorney Rubenzer helps you gather the documentation, testimony, and background information needed to demonstrate how your involvement positively impacts the child’s life.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Grandparent visitation cases can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Parents have strong constitutional rights, and courts must balance those rights with the child’s best interests. Having an experienced family law attorney ensures:



  • Your petition is properly filed
  • Your evidence is organized and compelling
  • Your relationship with the child is clearly presented
  • You understand each step of the legal process

Attorney Rubenzer provides compassionate, steady support throughout your case.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Call the Law Office of Sallie L. Rubenzer at 262‑353‑9329 to discuss your grandparent visitation rights and take the first step toward reconnecting with your grandchild.