Overview

Losing contact with your grandchildren when their parents split up can be heartbreaking, but it is all too common. Unfortunately grandparents have no formal legal rights, although with the court’s permission you can apply for contact.

As with any family matter, it is always better if you can resolve the situation without going to court. While parents have the right to make decisions about their children’s upbringing and who they see, if they are denying you contact you should try to talk to them in the first instance.

Children do have a right to associate with other family members and to a family life, which includes grandparents. These relationships can be extremely beneficial, both materially and emotionally, and if you are finding it difficult to communicate this to the parents you may find mediation can help.

Where informal approaches fail, you can apply for leave from the court (permission) to apply for contact with your grandchildren. Once this is granted, you can apply for a contact order, which may involve you going to court.

If it comes to this stage, our expert family solicitors can advise you about the legal process and the best way to move forward.

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