Grandparent’s Child Arrangements Rights

Sadly, the statistics show that 42% of grandparents lose contact with their grandchildren when parents separate. Grandparents can apply to the court for a child arrangements order, but require the court’s permission to do so. If the child has lived with them for a period of a year or more before any application is made, then the requirement for permission is dispensed with. They are also entitled to apply for parental responsibility, which confers more rights.

As with other child arrangements order applications, the welfare of the child will be the court’s primary consideration. Each case will be decided on its own facts. There is no automatic presumption that grandparents’ involvement in children’s lives will necessarily further their welfare. However, the court regularly do make child arrangements orders in favour of grandparents.

If you would like to discuss Grandparent’s rights in more detail with our family lawyers in London or if we can assist you with general legal advice, please call us on 020 3405 0060 or send us a message to arrange your free initial consultation.