Grandparents can provide their grandchildren with a lot more than pleasant memories. By having an additional support system, children can live more stable lives as they receive more love and child care. However, if a child’s parents separate, they risk not being able to spend time with their extended family. With this in mind, it is important to know if grandparents and grandchildren can still meet and spend time with one another even after a divorce.
When can grandparents visit their grandchildren?
In New Jersey, grandparents may apply for visitation if they can prove that it serves the best interests of their grandchildren. Certain factors can influence a court’s decision to grant visitation rights, including:
- The relationship between the child and the applicant
- The relationship between the parents and the applicant
- The time since the child last had contact with the applicant
- How visitation might affect the child’s relationship with their parents
- Histories of abuse, neglect or other harmful behaviors
However, visitation is not the same as custody. Visiting applicants are free to spend time with their grandchildren in person or through phone and video calls, but this does not mean they have the right to influence major decisions concerning their healthcare, education or religion.
What else can grandparents do to gain visitation rights?
Judges typically grant visitation rights if there is proof that denying them will harm the child in some way. Children might experience emotional distress over being unable to spend time with their loved ones. Grandparents can strengthen their petition by proving their close bond, giving accounts of overnight stays, transportation to school, regular caregiving and how often they spent time together before the divorce.
Even if New Jersey courts prioritize the well-being of children, divorce can potentially separate them from the support and stability extended family can provide. By being able to see their grandparents even after their parents’ divorce, children can feel more secure and continue growing as individuals.