GRANDPARENT ISSUES

Houston, Texas Grandparents Rights Lawyer

As a grandparent, I know the joy of being with my grandchildren and understand the desire of grandparents to do all they can to make sure their grandchildren are safe and well cared for. However, unless the children are in an unsafe situation with their parents, grandparents are limited in their rights to obtain court-ordered visitation and custody. Grandparents must prove that a child is in a dangerous environment with the custodial parent and that the child would be better off in their care.

Contact the Law Offices of Judith E. Blanchard, P.C. to arrange a consultation.

Protecting Grandchildren Who Are in Danger

The rights of grandparents can be an emotionally charged issue, given that grandparents do not have the right to obtain custody and visitation unless there is an emergency situation. Nevertheless, grandparents who are concerned about the well-being of their grandchildren do have the right to take legal action to protect the grandkids they care about. There are several circumstances that put children in physical and/or psychological danger. These circumstances can include living with a parent who is:

• dependent on drugs or alcohol
• incarcerated (in jail)
• neglectful
• abusive

Grandparents need standing to file a lawsuit. It is not merely enough if parents do not allow grandparents to see their grandchildren. If abuse, neglect, or other child endangerment is apparent, I can talk to grandparents about the advisability of filing a lawsuit.

If you are concerned that your grandchild is in an unsafe environment, contact my firm to arrange a consultation.