Worried About Not Seeing Grandchildren Over The Holidays? Grandparents Rights In Fort Lauderdale

The holidays are about spending time with other loved ones. However, if you have a fractured relationship with your child or their spouse, you may be worried about not seeing grandchildren during the holiday season or otherwise not being a part of their lives. Our Fort Lauderdale family lawyer explains your rights and how to protect yourself.

Your Legal Rights As A Grandparent In Fort Lauderdale

For many, part of the fun surrounding the holidays is having children to share it with. Sadly, too many grandparents are excluded from being a part of their grandchildren’s lives, depriving them both of all the benefits of this special relationship.

Grandparents do much more than spoil their grandchildren. They provide love, encouragement, and help in meeting practical needs. However, despite these contributions, grandparents have few legal rights in Florida.

In a divorce, it is up to the parents to continue allowing grandparents access to their grandchildren. In cases where one or both parents have passed, had their parental rights terminated, or are otherwise unable to provide for their children, Section 39.509 of the Florida Statutes does offer some legal protections:

• If a parent is deceased or does not have custody, it does not impact the rights of grandparents to continue seeing their grandchildren. Grandparents can arrange for visits in their homes, outings, or other interactions, provided it does not adversely impact the child and the caseworkers involved approve it.
• Beyond these types of visits, grandparents in Fort Lauderdale can also fight to be named their grandchildren’s legal guardian, either on a temporary or more permanent basis, when parents are unable to provide for their care.

In either case, any plans must be in writing and approved through the Broward County Family Court.

Protecting Grandparent Rights In Fort Lauderdale

If you have lost a child, if your child lost their parental rights, or if they are engaging in behavior that puts your grandchildren at risk, contact our Fort Lauderdale family lawyer right away. We guide you through the options available under Florida law and take legal action on your behalf.

If your child simply refuses to let you see your grandchildren or if they and their partner are putting obstacles in your path, follow these tips to protect your rights and preserve this special relationship:

• Acknowledge that you are the grandparent and not the actual parent, meaning you have limited say in how your grandchildren are raised;
• Unless you have reason to believe they are putting your grandchild at risk, try and support their decisions;
• Rather than demanding visits on your terms, offer to babysit your grandchild, take them shopping, or provide other practical help;
• Resist lecturing or criticizing either parent, particularly in your grandchild’s presence.

Reach Out To Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Family Lawyer

Grandparents have a special bond with their grandchildren. To protect your relationship with them and your legal rights, reach out to Fort Lauderdale family lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto. Contact us today and request a consultation to discuss your options.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0039/Sections/0039.509.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family