Grandparent Rights in Bucks County Family Court

Grandparents have the opportunity to seek custody and/or visitation.  Grandparents' rights in Bucks County are complicated and required experienced Bucks County family law attorneys to navigate these issues.  A grandparent can file for full or partial custody or visitation rights in PA.  Partial custody or visitation can be granted if the court deems it to be in the best interests of the child and would not interfere with the child’s relationship with the parents.  The relationship that was established between grandparent and grandchild prior to the filing for partial custody or visitation is also considered.  Also, if a child lived with the grandparent for twelve months prior and was then taken away by a parent, then the grandparent can file for partial custody or visitation. If one parent dies, the grandparents can file for partial custody or visitation providing the court finds this to be in the best interest of the grandchild.

Grandparent Rights & Issues

A grandparent can file for full custody under some circumstances such as:  if the court determines the grandchild may suffer harm due to parental abuse, use of drugs or alcohol, the dependent child lived with the grandparent for at least twelve months and the grandparent provided for the child’s needs, and then was taken back by the parents, the grandparent had a previous relationship with the grandchild that was approved by either a parent or court order. The grandparent must be willing to take care of the grandchild and demonstrate that he/she is concerned about the child’s overall welfare. It is important to note that grandparent custody rulings are subject to change and can be contested by the parent(s).