(b) In determining the best interests of the child, the court shall consider the following factors: (1) the love, affection, and other emotional ties existing between the grandparents involved and the child; (2) the capacity and disposition of the parties involved to give the child love, affection, and guidance; (3) the nature of the relationship between the petitioner and the grandchild and the desirability of maintaining that relationship; (4) the moral fitness of the parties;(5) the mental and physical health of the parties;(6) the reasonable preference of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient age to express a preference; (7) the willingness and ability of the petitioner to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing relationship between the child and the other parties; and (8) any other factor which the court considers to be relevant to a just determination regarding visitation or access. (Added 1983, No. 219 (Adj. Sess.), eff. May 9, 1984.)
Vermont Legal Code