(a) In ruling on the petition, the court shall conduct a hearing to determine whether the ward has sufficient capacity to make a knowing and intelligent visitation decision based on evidence presented.
(b) If the court determines that the ward has sufficient capacity to make a knowing and intelligent visitation decision and the ward expresses a desire for visitation with the petitioner, the court shall order visitation.
(c) If the court determines that the ward has sufficient capacity to make a knowing and intelligent visitation decision, but does not desire visitation with the petitioner, the court shall not order visitation.
(d) If the court determines that the ward does not have capacity to make a knowing and intelligent visitation decision, the court shall determine whether to order visitation based on the best interest of the ward as determined by the evidence presented to the court.
(e) The court shall order the petitioner to pay the court costs and reasonable fees and expenses of any attorney or court representative appointed under this division.
Structure Code of Alabama
Title 26 - Infants and Incompetents.
Chapter 2A - Alabama Uniform Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Act.
Article 2 - Protection of Persons Under Disability and Their Property.
Division 2A - Guardians of Incapacitated Persons.
Section 26-2A-112 - Definitions.
Section 26-2A-113 - Petition to Compel Visitation.
Section 26-2A-114 - Investigation and Report.
Section 26-2A-115 - Hearing; Orders.