Does a grandparent have any rights to a child?
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Does a grandparent have any rights to a child?
Asked on October 28, 2012 under Family Law, Pennsylvania
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Under the laws of many states in this country certain relatives other than the parents of a minor may have rights for visitation of the child under certain circumstances. Typically such laws pertain to grandparents and granchildren solely for reasonable visitation.
I suggets that you consult with a family law attorney in the area where you reside to see if there are applicable statutes in your state to assist you with visitation issues with respect to you and your grandchildren.
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Many states, including Pennsylvania, have provisions for granting grandparents access to their grandchildren. If a grandparent wants visitations after their child/parent dies, and the surviving parent refuses, they can petition the court for limited access to the child. The access is not the same as a custodial parent, but it does afford the grandparent the opportunity to maintain a relationship with their grandchild.
Pennsylvania does, however, place restrictions on this access if the rights of the biological parent have been terminated and the grandparent was not able to get custody of the grandchild.
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