Grandparents’ rights in divorce

Many grandparents play a key role in the upbringing of their grandchildren. They can worry what rights grandparents have if the parents decide to divorce. Vardags understand that a difficult consequence of divorce can be a relationship breakdown or deprived time with grandchildren.  We specialise in advising grandparents on how best to re-establish contact with their grandchildren. 

Grandparents have no automatic rights in relation to their grandchildren. They can however seek permission of the court to apply for orders just like a parent. This can include specific issue orders and prohibited steps orders, as well as orders for contact.

As with all applications under the children act, the primary focus will be the welfare of the children. Where it can be demonstrated that it is in the children’s best interests to spend more time with grandparents, this may well be ordered.

If you would like some legal advice on grandparents rights, contact Vardags.