If your grandchild’s parents have been deemed unfit to raise their child, you may be wondering if you are entitled to child custody. Continue reading and reach out to our experienced family law attorney to learn about child custody and how grandparents can become their grandchild’s legal guardian in New Jersey. Also, if your circumstances do not warrant a custody transition, continue reading to learn how grandparents can receive visitations rights. If you have any further questions regarding grandparent’s rights in New Jersey, give our firm a call to learn more about our services and how we can assist you. Our experienced legal team is here to help.
How can grandparents receive visitation rights?
Grandparents will have to file a formal motion with the court to receive visitation rights with their grandchild. The court will consider the following after the motion is filed:
- The grandparent’s relationship with the grandchild’s parents
- The bond the grandparent has with their grandchild
- Whether being awarded visitation would affect the relationship between the grandchild and their parents
- If the grandparent is applying for visitation in good faith
- How much time has elapsed since the grandparent last saw/spoke with their grandchild and the reason behind this time
- Whether any abuse or inappropriate behavior between the grandparent and their grandchild has been reported
Can a grandparent become a grandchild’s legal guardian in New Jersey?
In some circumstances, the grandparent may be the next in line to obtain custody of a child such as if both parents pass away or one parent is deemed parentally unfit. To become a grandchild’s legal guardian in New Jersey, you will need experienced legal counsel. Reach out to our knowledgeable firm to discuss how we will fight for your rights as a grandparent.
Some scenarios that may warrant a grandparent obtaining custody are as follows:
- Child abuse
- Child neglect
- Incapacitation
- Incarceration
- Abandonment
- Mental health issues
- Substance abuse
- Certain medical conditions
- Economic limitations
- Financial limitations
If you have any additional questions regarding the process of becoming a grandchild’s legal guardian in New Jersey, do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced Bergen County family law attorney today to learn how we can assist you. Give our firm a call to schedule your initial consultation.
Contact our experienced Bergen County firm
At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, our attorneys have extensive experience helping clients to understand and protect their legal rights before, during, and after the divorce process in towns across New Jersey and Bergen County, including Hackensack, Ridgewood, Paramus, Teaneck, and Fort Lee. To speak with our team of divorce lawyers today in a free and confidential consultation regarding your concerns about your divorce, please contact us online, or through our Hackensack, NJ office at (201) 397-1750.
