When family relationships change or undergo challenges, grandparents may wonder how the circumstances may affect their involvement in their grandchildren’s lives. Lauren Taylor Law provides expertise in visitation rights and custody laws for grandparents throughout South Carolina.

What Legal Rights Do Grandparents Have?

According to the  Grandparents’ Rights Association of South Carolina , grandparents have two legal rights — visitation and custody. Because each family dynamic varies, the court makes lawful decisions based on what it believes to be the best interests of the involved children. You can count on Lauren Taylor Law to answer your questions.

What Are Grandparents’ Rights to Visitation in South Carolina?

Grandparent visitation rights are considered when either of a child’s parents are deceased, divorced or separated. Generally, they are secondary to a parent’s rights.

When determining the visitation guidelines, a judge evaluates factors such as the child’s emotional and physical needs. Sometimes, the court may order grandparent visitation to overrule a parent’s objections.

Can a Parent Deny a Grandparent Visitation in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, parents can usually deny grandparent visitation. However, the circumstances may change with a court order — if there is a court order for grandparent visitation and the parents refuse to comply, the parents may face legal consequences.

What Do You Do When Your Kids Won’t Let You See Your Grandkids?

You should consult a lawyer if your children won’t let you see your grandkids. Lauren Taylor Law can help you navigate the process of applying for a court order to communicate or spend time with your grandchildren.

Is Custody an Option for Grandparents?

Under certain circumstances, grandparents in South Carolina may gain custody of their grandchildren. If the grandparents can prove they’ve been a child’s primary caregiver and financial provider for a minimum amount of time, they may become de facto custodians.

How Does a Grandparent Submit Their Claim for Visitation or Custody in South Carolina?

Grandparents can work with a lawyer to make a claim for custody or visitation. Typically, grandparents who are de facto custodians may be entitled to visitation when either parent is deceased, divorced or separated. Judges may also grant visitation under compelling circumstances.

When deciding who receives custody, judges consider parents and de facto custodians. Working with a lawyer can help grandparents understand their rights and navigate the process.

Discuss Grandparents’ Rights in SC With Lauren Taylor Law

Lauren Taylor Law is dedicated to serving communities around Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina. If you’d like to discuss grandparents’ visitation and custody rights or another legal concern, please  submit a contact form  today.