Family solicitors - Mediation for grandparents

Family mediation for grandparents who are struggling to see their grandchildren

When a relationship comes to an end it can be incredibly tough on all parties, especially when children are involved. For children, too, separation can be a very difficult time. At Anthony Collins Solicitors, we appreciate how tough things are but also understand how a relationship breakdown can affect the wider family network. In today’s modern life grandparents can take a very active role with children – at times providing childcare for busy parents, or helping struggling families with their finances through the ‘bank of Mom and Dad’. As such, when a relationship comes to an end, this can impact greatly upon grandparents, where they feel “caught up” in the dispute between the parents.

As it stands, grandparents don’t have any legal right to see their grandchildren – interestingly neither do parents. However, children have the right to see their parents and their grandparents, if it is in their interests to do so. Whilst grandparents do not usually obtain orders akin to those a parent might be granted; every case is dealt with on its own merit. Courts, generally, try to preserve the relationship between grandparents and children as long as it is in the children’s best interests.

If a relationship breaks down and grandparents wish to ensure they see their grandchildren, family mediation can often help. It can help to resolve issues by talking and can involve the grandchildren’s parents. We are happy to talk to you about family mediation for grandparents and how it could work for you. We also provide family mediation services for:

• Separating couples without children
• Separating couples with children
• Child-inclusive mediation

For further information

To find out more about how we can be your family mediator, as grandparents, please contact a member of our mediation team: Chris Lloyd-Smith, Maria Ramon, or Kelly Brown.

We’ve produced a glossary of family mediation terms to help you get started.

Other organisations that can support you with marriage counselling, citizens advice, domestic violence and parenting support can be found here.

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