Grandparents Rights
Cheltenham prenuptial agreement solicitors
At Pembridge Solicitors, we advise grandparents in Cheltenham who are concerned about maintaining or restoring a relationship with their grandchildren. Family breakdown can be distressing for grandparents, particularly where contact with grandchildren becomes limited or stops altogether. Our role is to provide clear, practical advice on the legal position and the options available.
Many grandparents are unsure whether they have legal rights, when they can apply to the court, or what steps should be taken before formal action is considered. We explain how the law approaches grandparents’ involvement and guide you through the process carefully, allowing you to make informed decisions with confidence.
We take a practical and balanced approach, ensuring advice is clear, measured and tailored to your circumstances.
We take a measured and respectful approach, focused on the child’s welfare and on resolving matters in a way that is proportionate and appropriate.
Understanding grandparents’ rights
Grandparents do not have automatic legal rights to see their grandchildren. However, the law recognises that a meaningful relationship with grandparents can be important for a child’s wellbeing and stability.
Where difficulties arise, legal advice can help clarify what options are available and whether court involvement may be appropriate. Each situation is considered on its own facts, with the child’s best interests remaining the central consideration.
When grandparents may need legal advice
Grandparents often seek advice following separation, divorce, or wider family disagreements that affect contact with grandchildren. In some cases, contact may have reduced gradually, while in others it may have stopped suddenly.
Legal advice can help you understand whether steps can be taken to re-establish contact, how to approach the situation carefully, and whether informal resolution should be explored before considering formal applications.
The process for seeking contact explained
In most cases, the court expects attempts to be made to resolve matters without immediate court involvement. This may involve discussion, negotiation, or other appropriate steps to reach an agreement that works for everyone involved.
If agreement cannot be reached, grandparents may apply to the court for permission to make an application for contact. If permission is granted, the court will then consider what arrangements, if any, are in the child’s best interests.
Your solicitor will explain each stage clearly, advise you on what is required, and guide you through the process in a calm and structured way.
How we manage grandparents’ rights matters
Once instructed, your solicitor will take the time to understand your relationship with your grandchildren and the circumstances that have led to the current situation. We provide clear advice on the options available and the most appropriate way to proceed.
Our approach is focused on resolution wherever possible, while ensuring that matters are handled properly and with sensitivity. Where court involvement becomes necessary, we will guide you through each step and ensure you are supported throughout.
When court involvement may be required
Court involvement is not always necessary, but it may be required where contact cannot be agreed or where previous arrangements have broken down.
If court proceedings are needed, the court’s focus will always be on the child’s welfare. Your solicitor will explain how decisions are made, what factors the court considers, and what you can expect from the process.
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Clear, confidential advice on prenuptial agreements. Speak to an experienced solicitor to understand your options and next steps.
Common questions about grandparents’ rights
Grandparents often have understandable concerns about their position. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we are asked.
Do grandparents have an automatic right to see their grandchildren?
No. Grandparents do not have an automatic legal right to contact with their grandchildren. However, this does not mean that grandparents cannot seek contact or that their role is not valued.
The court recognises that grandparents can play an important and positive role in a child’s life. Legal advice can help you understand whether an application may be appropriate and how the court is likely to view your involvement.
Can I apply to the court for contact with my grandchildren?
Yes, but in most cases grandparents must first apply for the court’s permission before making a formal application for contact. This initial step allows the court to consider whether an application should proceed.
Permission is often granted where there is an established relationship between the grandparent and the child and where the application is considered to be in the child’s best interests. A solicitor can advise you on the likelihood of permission being granted in your circumstances.
What does the court consider when deciding grandparents’ applications?
The court’s primary concern is always the child’s welfare. This includes looking at the child’s needs, stability, and overall wellbeing.
The court will also consider the nature of the relationship between the grandparent and the child, any potential impact on the child, and whether contact would be beneficial. Each case is considered individually, based on its own circumstances.
Will the court force parents to allow contact?
The court will not make orders lightly. Any decision made will be based on what the court believes is in the child’s best interests.
Where appropriate, the court may make arrangements that support contact, but the aim is always to promote stability and reduce conflict. Legal advice can help you understand how the court approaches these decisions.
Do I have to go to court to resolve the situation?
Not always. Many situations can be resolved without court proceedings, particularly where communication can be improved or agreements can be reached informally.
Court is usually a last resort where other options have been explored and have not been successful. A solicitor can advise you on whether court involvement is likely to be necessary.
Can I get advice even if I am unsure about taking legal action?
Yes. Many grandparents seek advice simply to understand their position and the options available, without any immediate intention to take formal steps.
All discussions are confidential, and seeking advice does not commit you to taking legal action.
Where we serve
Our grandparents’ rights solicitors advise clients across Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury, as well as the surrounding areas. Advice can be provided in person or remotely, depending on what is most suitable for you.
Speak to grandparents’ rights solicitors in Cheltenham
If you are concerned about contact with your grandchildren or would like advice on your options, our solicitors are here to help. We provide clear, practical guidance with discretion and professionalism.
To speak to one of our grandparents’ rights solicitors, call 0330 900 0377 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.
How to Find Us
Pembridge Solicitors
Calderwood House
Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA