Information on Grandparent Rights

grandparents with grandchildrenFamily law matters involve not only parents and children, but at times, involve grandparents as well. Grandparents fall into a separate category under the law and do not have equal standing with parents. At times, however, when grandparents meet specific criteria, they may be eligible to file an application with the Court. In that event the Court considers a variety of factors such as:

  • The relationship between the grandparent and child
  • The relationship of the grandparent with each of the parents
  • The amount of time since the grandparent last had contact with the child
  • The affect the grandparent visitation would have on the time of the parent who has custody of the child
  • If there is a divorce or the parents of the child are separated, the visitation and custody arrangements that are already in place
  • History of physical, emotional or sexual abuse
  • If the grandparent is filing the application in good faith
  • Any other factors impacting on the best interests of the child.