The relationship between a grandparent and a grandchild is a special one. In New Mexico, grandparents may be granted visitation during or after a divorce. In some instances, grandparents can become a more permanent part of a child’s life.

A couple in another state has been raising their seven grandchildren after the children’s mother died. The grandchildren range in age from 10 to 23.

The couple says that raising the children has been difficult at times. However, they recently got some support from their community through a program at a local church.

Most grandparents do not have to take over parenting roles. However, they often want to create meaningful relationships with their grandchildren.

When courts are considering whether to grant grandparents visitation rights they often consider a variety of factors. For instance, they may consider whether or not there is an existing relationship between the grandparents and the grandchildren. They may also consider the relationship between the children’s parents and the grandchildren as well as whether or not the children spent a significant amount of time with their grandparents at any point.

As with all things related to children in a divorce, the courts will consider whether granting visitation rights to grandparents is in the children’s best interests.

There may be instances when parents are adamantly opposed to grandparents being granted visitation rights. Unfortunately, there is little that can be done in those situations. However, grandparents may look to mediation to solve their differences with their grandchildren’s parents.

Children are an important part of their parents’ lives. However, they are often an important part of their grandparents’ lives as well. Albuquerque residents who are looking to learn more about grandparents’ rights may find it best to speak with a legal professional.

Source: WDBJ-TV, “Danville grandparents raising grand kids find support system,” Justin Ward, March 9, 2013