If you’re particularly close to your grandchildren, then you may find it particularly hard to come to terms with the thought of not being able to spend time with them if some type of family dispute happens. This doesn’t have to be the end of things though. In states like Ohio, grandparents do have rights to see their grandchildren. It’s up to you to carefully weigh the pros and cons of pursuing legal action to get to see them though.
Family strife can be quite detrimental to the development of a child. It can create a sense of abandonment for your grandchild if they’re dragged in and out of court for custody battles. If you request visitation with them, then you may do more harm to them than good.
Family law matters can get quite involved. You and your grandchild may find yourselves subject to constant conversations with social workers, lawyers and judges about personal family issues. You requesting that the court awards you visitation may leave the parents feeling inadequate in their parenting abilities. Custody disputes may make children feel as if they have to choose between their mom, dad and grandparents.
All of this can make for unnecessary conflict. It may leave a lasting impression on your family that isn’t easy for you to recover from.
The financial cost involved in litigating a grandparents’ rights or any custody case can be costly. This is especially the case in states with complex laws in place.
Grandparents wanting to fight for visitation rights with their grandkids may find that they have to pay for a guardian ad litem to serve as an advocate for the children’s interests in the case. Court costs may toll each hearing that takes place. Mediation can get quite expensive. There are travel costs and potential supervised visitation fees if a grandparent does win their case.
While the laws of Ohio may be written to allow grandparents to enjoy visitation with their grandkids, judges are only allowed to hear such cases in a few select instances. An attorney can review the details of your Hamilton case and let you know if you have a valid claim for requesting visitation under state law.
