We have been asked several times what rights do grandparents have when they have been denied access to their grandchildren?
No rights…but…
Grandparents do not have an automatic right to contact in law. Only people with parental responsibility have such a right. However, family courts do note that grandparents have an invaluable role to play.
Child Arrangement Orders
Grandparents can apply to the Family Court for permission from the courts to apply for a child arrangements order granting contact to their grandchildren. In our experience, it is unlikely that the courts would refuse this unless there is a very good reason i.e. evidence of violence or abuse.
If the parents are separated then any grandparent contact would have to be sorted out in such a way that it did not interfere with contact between the children and the absent parent. Normally however the grandparents would probably see the children when they have contact to that parent.
One half hour consultation costs only £90 (plus VAT). Just call us 01476 565 295 to arrange an appointment to suit you.
