The role that many grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives cannot be underestimated.
The most common reason why grandparents stop seeing their grandchildren is when their parents separate. It can be heart-breaking for grandparents if one parent decides to keep them away from them, especially if they know that their grandchildren are struggling with the changes in their lives, and want and need to maintain close relations with Gran and Grandpa.
In emotionally challenging circumstances like these, we would always try to negotiate an agreement that would voluntarily enable grandparents to regain and maintain relations with their grandchildren, that would accord with the needs of the child or children.
Seeing your grandchildren
Going to Court to pursue grandparent’s rights is always looked upon as a last resort option. However, if a voluntary agreement with the parent who has the child or children living with them, is not possible, then an Order from the Court, would have to be sought.
If you want to spend an appropriate amount of time with your grandchildren, without having them living with you, then we can assist you in getting a Contact Order. A Contact Order, is an Order granted by the Court, stating what times and how often you are to see your grandchildren.
The Court adopts a practical approach when deciding these matters, and Sheriffs understand that it is normally in children’s best interests to spend a reasonable amount of time with their grandparents, even when the parent who they live with does not see things quite like that.
Having your grandchildren come to live with you
If it would be in the children’s best interests to live with one set of their grandparents on a full time basis, we can apply to the Court for a Residence Order. A Residence Order legally determines that the child or children are to live with their grandparents.
Restoring family connections
We appreciate the delicate nature of cases involving grandparent’s rights; therefore, we spend time getting to know you and your family situation closely. We work with care, and empathy, ensuring that matters are handled with professionalism and with a personal level of understanding throughout the entire process.
For more information on how we can help you with Grandparent’s Rights, please complete our contact form or call us on: 01698 539981 (Hamilton), 01324 468381 (Falkirk). We look forward to helping you.