Apr 14, 2016

When a divorce occurs, most people think of the complications and implications that impact the parents and children, but there are also others in the picture that may have to deal with the outcome as well. This includes grandparents. Many grandparents may feel as though they have no rights or they may find themselves struggling to find time to spend with their grandchild no matter how much time they spent with them previously. What are the rules under Michigan’s divorce laws for grandparents?

In some situations, it is possible for grandparents to be given visitation rights in the event of a divorce. However, Michigan courts put a lot of attention on factors that impact the child specifically. In other words, every situation is very different. Every child’s situation will need to be taken into consideration. If a grandparent spent a great deal of time with a young child, removing that grandparent, in situations where the relationship is good, can be damaging. The courts may offer some assistance in providing visitation in this situation.

Ultimately, the child’s best interests are always the deciding factor. This is based on the love, affection and emotional ties the child has to the grandparent as well as the ability of the grandparent to provide proper care and support to eh child. More so, there are other factors to consider as well including which parent has custody, the circumstances of the divorce, and the wishes of the child if he or she is older.

If you are filing for divorce or you are a grandparent facing these changes, it helps to have an experienced divorce attorney by your side to answer questions that are more specific to your situation. As a grandparent, you may not want to sit on the sidelines to wait and see what happens. You should take action to learn more about your options and your rights under the state’s laws.