When a couple divorces it affects each person in the family a different way. Children share a special bond with each parent and it is a very difficult time for them. A divorce can affect children negatively for months, and sometimes much longer.
Grandparents are also people in the family that are hurt by divorce. A divorce changes people’s lives around and it is hard for all involved to adjust to these changes. While everyone is worried in a divorce situation about the rights of each parent, grandparents People are sometimes not thought of during a divorce…and they suffer because of it.
Grandparents are an integral part of the grandchildren’s lives and need to be there to continue a relationship with their loved ones. Unfortunately, this is not always recognized legally, and legal rules are of paramount importance in a divorce.
When custody battles are going on between the parents the grandchildren need a soft place to fall and the grandparents can give this to them. They have mutual love for each other and they need to know that their relationship is secure and will stay the same even if other parts of their life will change.
When thinking of what is best for the children, allowing the grandparents to stay in their lives is an obvious plus that can have many benefits for them. They will have their lives interrupted and upset enough as it is, and grandparents can be there to help. Grandparents can provide the warmth and the support that your children need during this time. When the children need a place to go and someone to talk to the grandparents can help. The can provide children with the feeling of safety and security.
If children are kept from seeing their grandparents, the possibility for grandparents petitioning for visitation rights if they are locked out of their grandchildren’s lives is very real. But it is a complicated matter.
Hopefully you will never find yourself in this situation, but if you do you should consult The Custody Center for help. They are the number one authority for helping you navigate the complex world of grandparents rights.
NEIL