Grandparents play an important part in the lives of their grandchildren. When child custody and visitation disputes occur between parents, grandparents are not immune to the fallout.
If you are seeking visitation or even custody of your minor grandchildren, a dedicated family attorney may be able to help. The courts often defer to the judgment of the parents, but a Troy grandparents’ rights lawyer could advise you of your options during these disputes and help you exercise your rights related to your minor grandchildren.
Grandparents in Troy have the right to seek visitation of their grandchildren in certain cases. State laws related to grandparents’ visitation are among the most liberal in the nation. An attorney in Troy may help grandparents exercise these rights and seek visitation with their grandchildren when appropriate.
There are two primary circumstances where a grandparent has inherent rights to seek visitation. The first occurs when one or both parents of the minor child dies. After the death of a parent, it is not uncommon for the surviving parent or guardian to prefer that the children have no contact with the grandparents on the other side of the family. In these cases, the grandparents could seek visitation rights through the courts. A grandparent could also pursue visitation rights through the court if they are prevented from developing a relationship with their grandchildren by the parents.
Having the standing to seek visitation with a minor child is one thing. Having that request granted by the court is another. It is important to understand that some grandparents with standing to request visitation rights with their grandchildren could still see those requests denied. This is because a judge is required to make visitation decisions based on the child’s best interests. In cases where the court finds that visitation with a grandparent would not be what is best for the child, the request will be denied.
There are several factors a judge will consider when determining if grandparent visitation is appropriate. With the help of a Troy grandparents’ rights attorney, it may be possible to argue that these factors are present. The courts will first look at the relationship between the grandparent and child. If there is an existing relationship between the parties, the courts will consider how the status of that relationship would benefit from visitation. A judge must also take into account how visitation might affect the relationship between parent and child. If a grandparent is likely to undermine a child’s relationship with their parents, the court is unlikely to grant visitation.
As a grandparent, you understand that your relationship with your grandchild is precious. If you believe that your rights as a grandparent are in danger, it is crucial to understand that you may have legal options. In many cases, you may have the option for visitation rights to your grandchildren.
A Troy grandparents’ rights lawyer may help you understand your rights and explore your options. Contact us today to learn more.
Colwell Law
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(518) 462-4242
200 Great Oaks Blvd 