HOW DO CUSTODY DECISIONS AFFECT THE ROLE OF GRANDPARENTS?

Divorce takes a toll on the couple, their children, and extended family members, such as grandparents.  When a divorce occurs and custody is determined by a court, it can have implications for grandparents.  Nearly 40 years ago, most states did not have statutes governing grandparents’ rights to have visitation time with their grandchildren.  Today, states have outlined different rules regarding visitation for grandparents.

Courts recognize the important role that grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren.  The goal of states granting rights to grandparents in custody cases is to allow rich relationships between grandchildren and grandparents to continue after a divorce or when a parent passes away.

In Michigan, grandparents can petition the court to grant visitation rights when a divorce has occurred or is pending.  Courts will also consider awarding custody to grandparents when the child’s parent dies and the other parent is absent or unfit.

Sometimes grandparents can engage in mediation with the parents in an effort to create a workable plan for maintaining a relationship with children after a divorce.  Mediation requires a neutral third party to hear each party and makes a nonbinding decision.  The goal in mediation is to resolve disputes without going to court.

Grandparents seeking visitation rights or custody of their grandchildren in the event of the death of a parent or parents need to secure legal representation.  Highly skilled lawyers can be highly beneficial to grandparents, especially if the visitation is contested by one parent.   Grandparents residing in the mid-Michigan area can rely on the team of legal experts at Bailey Smith and Bailey to effectively represent them in custody matters involving their grandchildren.  With more than 90 years of combined legal experience, grandparents can rest assured knowing their attorney will provide sound legal advice and assess the case with compassion and care.  Contact the team of experts today at Bailey Smith and Bailey today to request a consultation.