Grandparent rights, often formally referred to as access or contact parenting time, are not guaranteed. That being said, Courts have recognized that the best interests of children may be met if there is a Court Order establishing the rights of a grandparent to see their grandchild. If you require assistance with grandparent rights, one of our lawyers may be able to see you as early as today.

What are Grandparent Rights

Unlike guardianship, parenting orders, custody agreements or judgments between two parents that legally provide rights upon the birth of a child, grandparents are not entitled automatically to see their grandchildren. In the event of a dispute, a formal court application can be made to establish a grandparent’s ability to see a child.

Why do grandparents not have automatic rights

There may be instances where it is not in a child’s best interests for them to spend time with a grandparent. This is usually in cases where there is a lot of acrimony between parents that has also impacted extended families.

What can a court order

The Court has broad powers to assist grandchildren whose best interests are served having meaningful parenting time with their grandparents. The Court can order specified times, such as weekends, that grandchildren are able to attend and potentially stay over with their grandparents.

I do not want the ex’s grandparents involved in my child’s life

If you are a parent at odds with a grandparent of your child, it may be in your child’s best interests to have a clear Court order confirming that no contact is to occur with the grandparents, even if the children are in the care of your ex during specified times. Each case is unique and Virk Law lawyers are experienced in different disputes that have arisen in cases involving grandparents.