Third-Party Child Custody And Grandparents’ Rights
Family dynamics can change quickly when parents separate or start the divorce process. If you are a grandparent, aunt or uncle, you may worry that a divorce could cut into the time you cherish with your grandchild, niece or nephew.
Handling Child Custody Matters For Three Decades
At Coodin & Overson, PLLP, we have more than 30 years of experience helping families navigate the emotional journey of divorce. Our top priority is to protect children often feeling like they are caught in the middle. We focus on helping parents establish custody arrangements in their children’s best interests.
We believe grandparents, aunts, uncles and other third parties can play an important role in maintaining a consistent relationship with children facing a tremendous amount of change in their lives. In unique circumstances, grandparents or other third parties may be in the best position to become the primary caregivers. Contact our Lake Elmo third-party child custody lawyers to learn more about the child custody process in Minnesota.
Can Third Parties Seek Child Custody In Minnesota?
Child custody laws in Minnesota are based on the children’s best interests. This may seem straightforward, but that is rarely the case. Disputes often stem from differing views over what would be in a child’s best interests. Generally, a custody arrangement needs to be negotiated between the divorcing parents. Every divorce is just as unique as the family dynamics involved.
As a grandparent, uncle or aunt, you may worry that you’ll have limited time with your grandchild, niece or nephew. We can help you understand the legal process so you are not left in the dark. Our family law attorneys can also help you seek child custody if you believe your grandchild, niece or nephew is in an unstable environment based on a variety of concerns, such as:
- Child abuse and other domestic violence
- Alcohol abuse
- Drug addiction
- Child neglect
We have decades of experience and understand the uphill battle relatives face when trying to seek custody of a loved one. Our attorneys know how to handle highly contested matters in the children’s best interests. We have access to child psychologists and other experts who can help us prove why you would be in a better position to be the primary caregiver if the parents are unfit. Our Lake Elmo third-party child custody lawyers know how to effectively advocate for a child’s well-being.
In some cases, a child’s grandparents may have a significant role in fulfilling the child’s best interests. To learn more about the issues surrounding grandparents’ rights, read our grandparent custody article.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
No two divorces are the same. We may have decades of experience, but we will never assume to know what is in your child’s or grandchild’s best interests. Our child custody attorneys are available to meet with you and hear about any concerns you may have about the safety or well-being of children caught in the middle of a divorce. After meeting with you, we can help you understand if you would be in a good position to obtain temporary or permanent custody. Contact us today at 651-204-8692 for a free initial consultation in Woodbury, Minnesota.