In some family situations, it may become necessary for a grandparent to seek visitation or custody of their grandchild. But this is often unknown legal territory for grandparents, and it's important to know some basic facts about grandparents' rights, child custody, and the law. Family court attorney and custody lawyer Don Roberts of the Don Roberts Law Offices in Hilliard, OH, discusses three things to know about grandparents' rights.

3 Things to Know About Grandparents' Rights

1. Your Rights to Visitation

Don't let anyone dismiss your relationship with your grandchildren or the vital role you play in their lives. Under the law, a grandparent has certain rights that cannot be infringed upon. In the state of Ohio, you can seek visitation rights with a minor grandchild during or after divorce or child custody proceedings. As long as your relationship with the child is healthy, your influence positive, and your commitment to their welfare evident, the courts will usually want you to remain a valuable part of your grandchild's life.

2. Your Rights to Custody

In circumstances where a parent is unfit or unable to care for their child, the courts may step in and remove the child from the home. If this is a scenario in which you find yourself, it may be in your best interest to hire a family court attorney and start filing for custody of your grandchild.

Contrary to popular belief, family law courts are invested in keeping families together if at all possible. Your role as grandparent ensures the child stays within the family framework. You will likely be asked by the courts to provide evidence that you have the resources to take on custody of a minor child.

3. Your Rights When Paternity Is Challenged or a Parent Terminates Parental Rights

In cases where a child's paternity is in question, visitation rights for grandparents can only legally be established once paternity is proven. If one or both parents terminates their parental rights, most courts will consider the grandparents' rights terminated as well. In both of these situations, however, there is room for nuance, and every case will be different; the most effective route to take would be to secure the services of a family court attorney to explore your legal options.

Contact the Don Roberts Law Offices to schedule a consultation with a family and child custody lawyer. You can also reach the firm by calling (614) 777-4500 or visiting them on Facebook or Google+. Be sure you understand your legal rights and responsibilities as a grandparent, and you will make the best decisions possible for the future of your family.

_{Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio.  Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.}