Grandparents Rights

Grandparents play a fundamental role in their grandchildren’s lives. Issues can arise when contact arrangements break down. We understand that this can be extremely distressing for all involved.

Contact can break down for several reasons. It can be a particularly fraught topic for parents who are in the middle of separation or divorce proceedings.

If you are having problems seeing your grandchildren, our experienced family solicitors can help you understand your legal rights and how you can take steps to see your grandchildren.

Grandparents often play a vital role in their grandchildren's lives, and when contact arrangements break down, it can be distressing.

We are here to provide the support and guidance you need.

Our Services Include:

• Understanding Your Legal Rights: We will explain your legal rights and the steps you can take to maintain a relationship with your grandchildren.
• Mediation: We offer advice on mediation as a first step to resolving contact disputes and can refer you to trusted mediators. If mediation fails, we’ll help you secure a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM) certificate to apply to court.
• Court Applications: If mediation doesn’t resolve the issue, we will guide you through applying for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO), assisting with permission from the court and understanding the factors considered in making a decision.
• Direct Applications: If your grandchild has lived with you for at least three years, we can help you apply for a Child Arrangements Order without court permission.

We are here to provide clear, compassionate support tailored to your unique situation.

Where mediation is unsuccessful, an application may be made to the Family Court for a Child Arrangements Order.

A Child Arrangements Order is an order that regulates child arrangements.

The main guiding principle for any court decision relating to children is to advance their best interests. The court will make decisions per a child’s best interests, promoting their emotional, physical, and educational needs.

Generally, grandparents do not have an automatic entitlement to apply for a Child Arrangements Order, and they must obtain permission from the court before they can apply.

When considering an application for permission, the court will consider the following:

• The nature of the proposed application;
• The applicant's connection with the child;
• Any risk that there might be of the proposed application disrupting the child’s life to such an extent that they would be harmed by it;
• Where a local authority is looking after the child, what the authority’s plans for the child’s future care and the wishes and feelings of the parents;

If permission is granted, you can proceed with your application for a Child Arrangements Order.

If your grandchild has lived with you for at least three years, you can apply for a Child Arrangements Order without permission.

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