Hearing about your child’s divorce can elicit many feelings. You worry about their wellbeing and wonder how you can support them through this stressful process. However, you may also have underlying concerns of your own. For many grandparents, that anxiety centers around the ability to see their beloved grandchildren.
A divorce can change many aspects of the family dynamic, including the amount of time you spend with your grandkids. Here is what to know in this situation as a grandparent.
Grandparents may have visitation
The key word here is “may” – in that statement above as well as in North Carolina law. The law states that a custody order “may” address grandparent visitation if it is appropriate. That essentially means:
- It is up to the parents creating the custody agreement whether they wish to include grandparent visitation
- In the event of a custody dispute, the court would need good reason to consider granting grandparent visitation in the order
It is understandable that you want to protect the relationship you have with your grandchildren. While the legal protections for grandparents might not be very strong, there are ways to assert your right to see your grandchildren.
How can you maximize time with your grandchildren?
Unlike the parents, grandparents will not usually have a specific schedule for visitation or time with their grandchildren. Visitation – and custody – for grandparents is only considered in specific circumstances.
In many cases, you will have to arrange the time you spend with your grandchildren with your child. They are the parent, after all. If you wish to see the grandkids during your child’s specified parenting time, you should work with them. You can also plan to attend more academic ceremonies, sports games or other events to be involved in your grandchild’s life.
A divorce can be a challenging time for the whole family. As a grandparent, and a parent yourself, it will help to do what you can to support your family.