Grandparents’ Rights Lawyers in Suffolk County

Advocating for Grandparents' Rights in New York

After a divorce or breakup between couples with children, grandparents may be concerned about how child custody and visitation agreements might affect their ability to spend time with their grandchildren. Or perhaps the grandparents of a child involved in a domestic violence situation are concerned for the safety and well-being of their grandchild. Whatever the reason or cause, grandparents should be aware of their rights. Our Suffolk County grandparents' rights attorneys at The Meyers Law Group, P.C. may be able to help you protect your relationship with your precious grandchildren.

Call us to schedule a same-day appointment at (631) 496-1484 today, or contact us online to get started with our grandparents' rights attorney in Suffolk County.

Grandparents' Rights in New York

Grandparents can apply for visitation, but there is no requirement or guarantee that the court will grant visitation. The courts base their visitation decisions on the best interests of the child. If, in the unfortunate circumstances, the child's parents are deceased or are in some way unfit to care for the child, the court may decide on visitation (or even custody) for the grandparents as being in the best interests of the child.

In New York, a petition for grandparent visitation might be granted over the objections of the parents as long as the parent's rights are protected as well. Our caring and dedicated family law firm will build a compelling case to advocate for the visitation rights you deserve before the family court judge. A skilled and experienced attorney can also assist grandparents in the pursuit of gaining visitation to a grandchild who has been adopted.

Grandparents' Rights vs. Parents' Rights

In the realm of family law, grandparents' rights and parents' rights often intersect, requiring a careful examination of each party's rights and responsibilities. While parents generally hold significant decision-making authority regarding their children, New York recognizes that grandparents can play an essential role in a child's life. At The Meyers Group, P.C., we are well-versed in the legal nuances that govern these relationships, striving to find equitable solutions that prioritize the welfare of the child while respecting the rights of both parents and grandparents.

Criteria for Awarding Grandparent Visitation in NY

Determining when grandparent visitation will be awarded in New York involves a thorough consideration of various factors. While the state recognizes the fundamental rights of parents to make decisions for their children, it also acknowledges the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships with extended family members, including grandparents. New York courts will generally consider the following circumstances when determining whether to award grandparent visitation:

• Parental Objection: If one or both parents object to grandparent visitation, the court will assess whether such objection is reasonable and in the best interest of the child.
• Parental Rights and Responsibilities: The court will evaluate the existing rights and responsibilities of the parents and grandparents, taking into account the child's best interests.
• Death or Incapacitation of a Parent: In cases where a parent has passed away or is incapacitated, the court may be more inclined to grant grandparent visitation rights.
• Prior Relationship with the Grandchild: The court may consider the nature and extent of the prior relationship between the grandparent and the grandchild.
• Child's Best Interests: Ultimately, the court's primary concern is the best interests of the child.

Get Help from Our Grandparents' Rights Attorneys in Suffolk County

Our seasoned and knowledgeable firm understands that just because the parents of your grandchild may have decided to pursue separate lives does not mean that you should have to suffer separation from your grandchildren or damaged relationships. Grandparents have a very special relationship with their grandchildren, and it is a relationship that should be maintained.

Call our grandparents’ rights lawyers in Suffolk County at (631) 496-1484 for a consultation.