Under the law of England & Wales, grandparents do not have an automatic right to see their grandchildren or an automatic right to apply to court. They have to apply to court for permission to make such an application if the parents or those with parental responsiblity or full care of the children refuse contact.
We have advised, and successfully assisted, a significant number of grandparents who are seeking to spend time with their grandchildren, to gain parental responsibility for them, or to apply for a special guardianship order.
Where grandparents wish to make an application it is important for a full background to the circumstances to be disclosed in order that the correct advice can be given about what application is best in the circumstances.
Grandparents remain subject to attending a MIAM (mediation information and assessment meeting) prior to making an application to court and in addition must apply to the court for permission to make the application.
If you require further help or assistance, please contact us.