Most parents are thankful for the involvement of grandparents. They can be a source of free or at least low-cost babysitting services. They can take the pressure off of parents when sudden schedule changes arise or a child falls ill at school and needs to get picked up while the parent is still at work. Grandparents can be an invaluable support for a family with young children.
As a grandparent, you probably enjoy helping your child raise their children as much as you enjoy having a relationship with your grandkids. There is something truly incredible about seeing the next generation of your family take shape.
Unfortunately, if your relationship with your child sours or if they lose custody for some reason, you might find yourself cut off from your grandchildren. Can you request visitation as a grandparent in Arizona?
Arizona custody laws focus on what is best for the children
Typically, there is a presumption that biological parents have the right to custody of their children. However, family law in Arizona also recognizes that people other than parents play crucial roles in the lives of children.
Third-party visitation rules allow those not biologically or legally the parent of a child to ask for visitation or sometimes even custody of that child. They will need to show that they have had a relationship with the child and that their involvement will be in the child’s best interest.
A judge can review the family situation and then potentially give you the right to spend some time with your grandchildren, even if things remain tense with their parents. You can’t get third-party visitation as a grandparent without seeking it. A family law attorney can provide you with helpful guidance.