Lancaster County Custody Attorneys
Questions about "grandparents' rights" often arise in situations such as the following:
- Parents are divorcing, and the parents of the non-custodial parent worry that they will lose access to, and contact with, their grandchildren.
- One parent has died, and the surviving parent blocks the parents of the deceased parent from having frequent contact with the grandchildren.
- One parent is in prison or in the military, and grandparents on that side wish to retain contact with the grandchildren.
- Grandparents seek to be named as legal guardians of grandchildren whom they have cared for — or perhaps seek to adopt them.
- Grandparents may believe that they are best suited to care for a special-needs child.
As in all child custody matters, the best interests of the child are the number one concern of the courts. There are no special "grandparents' rights" per se from a legal perspective, other than the same rights that any adult may have who has acted in a parental role. An aunt, uncle, or a domestic partner of a biological parent are all examples of significant caregivers who may have legal claim to custody or visitation with a child — as well as grandparents.
If you have acted in a parental capacity to your grandchild in central Pennsylvania, caring for him or her for a significant period of time in a parental role and wish to petition for custody, talk to one of our family law attorneys. You may wish to discuss the pros and cons of adopting your grandchild or simply seeking custody and/or guardianship.
In the case of a divorce where your grandchildren are not in need of guardians but you wish for clarification and help seeing them, we can advise you on ways to accomplish this in the context of your child's visitation rights.
Our Pennsylvania Lawyers Advise Clients on Grandparents' Rights
The client-centered family law practice of Montgomery & Zimmerer, L.L.C., is our profession as well as our passion. Previously serving with other law firms, we left to found Montgomery & Zimmerer, L.L.C., with a philosophy of focusing on people and their problems above all. Your family law needs and your concern as grandparents for your grandchildren are the reason we are here. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn what we can do for you.
