Grand Parents Rights: Child Custody

The world has changed dramatically in the last decadechildren are taken by the 'in-law' parent?
and we are now seeing more divorce cases than2) Are the children being neglected because of the
ever before but what about the Grandparents rights?divorce issues?
Some may say it's a good thing that we should be3) What options do you have as a Grandparent
able to move on from a relationship where we are notregarding their welfare?
happy and we should be pleased that the process has4) What Grandparent rights do you have?
been made easier for the couple concerned, but whatWell the good news is that it would appear that
about everyone else who is involved in thisJudges are now listening more to the children concerns
relationship?and what is in their best interest. As a Grandparent
Everything becomes more difficult and very messy forthat has had a cherished relationship with a grandchild
both the children involved and the grandparents. Itit is natural to experience fear as to what the future
seems all too easy to forget that grandparents willholds for your loved ones. The 'in-law' may have won
have their worlds knocked upside down if they havecustody and you have fears for never seeing them
enjoyed a close relationship and it would appear thatagain or the fact that they are being disciplined by a
things are made even more difficult to ascertainstranger and expected to change a lifestyle. The other
Grandparent's rights as each state has its ownGrandparents are allowed access but you are having
precedents.problems making contact. The kids themselves,
It is a stressful time for everyone. As a Grandparentconfused as they, are may even think you have
you may have your own worries about your grandabandoned them!
child's welfare and how you are going to obtain visitingAs a Grandparent, maybe the dirty washing wasn't
rights. Or, you may even have a worry about theaired in public in your day but thank goodness for
children being abused or their welfare being pushed toGrandparents and the children concerned that judges
one side because of parental custody battles.are now willing to listen to all sides of the emotional
We all search into the dark side, especially if we thinkroller coaster. Grandparent rights are being looked at
our relationship is at risk. We ask ourselves:seriously as a positive step towards helping children
1) Are we going to be allowed visitation rights if thecome to terms with their changed circumstances.