what are grandparents rights and how do i envoke them?

Question

i have two teenaged grandaughters living in very bad circumstances and i would like to know where to go for help

Answer 1

Call child services if you can't afford an attorney,, with an attorney sometimes you can avoid the risk of losing the kids to child services rather than having them in your care.

Answer 2

First of all, talk to the parents and see if you can't work something out. If that doesn't work, OR if the situation is really THAT bad, then I urge you to contact Child Protective Services in the state that you live in. They are the only ones who can force a change in the living situation of your grandkids.

When you're talking to Child Protective Services, be as forthcoming as you can. Have dates, specific situations, and as much evidence as possible. Also, keep in mind that legally, you have no say in how they are being raised, so something like, "They're not being raised Christian," isn't going to be enough to force Child Protective Services to do anything.

Now then, conterary to public belief, grandparents generally have NO RIGHTS when it comes to their grandkids. Do not make the mistake of assuming that simply because you're the grandparent, you're "next in line" to be the guardian or anything like that. Regardless of whether or not you have your heart in the right place, you're not the parent, so you DO NOT have parental rights to the children.

If you have more specific questions about this situation, my recommendation is for you to contact an attorney who specializes in family law and explain exactly what you want and why.

Answer 3

Well Mrs C if you believe that your grandchildren are in a dangerous situation they you need to go to the Child Protective Services or the courts. You need to file a petition on behalf of the minor children and state the reason you would like to remove them from the home. In cases of abuse, neglect you may need to involve the police also. It depends on what the situation is and how far you are willing to go. You age and health will be brought up in court against you so be prepared. Make sure you have doctors sworn statements that having your grandchildren with you will not cause any unneeded health risk. You will also need to show a proof of income. How you get your money. If it is a boy and a girl involved you will need to have a house or apartment with more than 3 rooms. Each child of a different sex should have their own rooms. It will all come down to the city attorney.

Answer 4

My own mother tried to do this with my sister's kids and this is what the state told her....There is no such thing as grandparents' rights. As long as the kids have a roof over their heads, clothes on their backs and food in their stomachs, it doesn't matter.
I would try to contact your local social services center. See what avenues you can explore through them. You can also turn in whatever circumstances your grandchildren are in through social services and it has to remain completely anonymous. The state has to investigate every allegation. It's the law.. You could also involve a minister (ie- Catholic Charities if you aren't affiliated with a specific church.) Good luck. I know it's frustrating but don't give up and keep being persistent.

Answer 5

You have many options, you could just ask to have the children live with you. You could contact an attorney. If drug, alchohol, or sex abuse is envolved you need to step in imediately and get the kids out of there.
You could ask to help. You could be their saviror by helping with, cooking, cleaning, homework, monitor/police the children. I would not be JUDGEMENTAL.
Say, my poor darling child you are having so much trouble how can I make your life easier, how can I help you. Then you must follow through with your committment with no complaints.
Grandparents are a parents best resourses and a blessing from God. Bless you and good luck.

Answer 6

first you can call child protective services and file for an investigation, they will go see the children, see how there living and such, also go down to your local courts and petition for visitation, and custody....then get a good lawyer, and proove to the courts that the parents are not fit, or just make an agreement for visitation

Answer 7

Go to child protective services. If the circumstances are really that bad they will investigate it and if you are the relative they are closest too, they will probablly be placed with you until their home is deemed okay for them to return to. Good Luck.

Answer 8

i am a grandmother who has custody of a 12 year old grand daughter..i have had her since she was 17 months. but i only got custody a few years ago when her mother disappeared..i had to get a lawyer.to go in front of a judge to get custody.but it worked..i am not sure how you need to proceed but try talking to a lawyer..some will not charge you for a consult..legal aid society..department of human services..i hope it works out ...god bless you and those girls...i will pray for all of you ...good luck

Answer 9

depends . if the parents are screw ups you can call dyfs {divition of youth and family services } and they will investagate your claims . most likely if its drugs they will test them and probably hand them over to you for the time being . or any sort of abuse . do the right thing . its anomomous

Answer 10

Go to you're daughters! Talk to them and ask to help. Don't go to any Government agency! They won't help, they will only hurt! Trust me!!!! If you can't talk to you're daughters, then go to you're Pastor and ask for prayer, just don't involve the Government!