Grandparents’ Rights in South Jersey
Grandparents often play a vital role in their grandchildren’s lives-but in New Jersey, obtaining court-ordered visitation is not easy. Developments in case law have made grandparent visitation claims difficult to win, which is why you need an experienced attorney to protect your relationship with your grandchild.
Can Grandparents Get Visitation in New Jersey?
Yes, but the legal standard is demanding. If a grandparent has served as the child’s primary caretaker, visitation is presumed to be in the child’s best interests. In all other cases, the grandparent bears the burden of proving that denying visitation would be harmful to the child.
New Jersey courts apply eight statutory factors when evaluating grandparent visitation requests:
- The relationship between the child and the grandparent
- The relationship between the grandparent and each parent (or person the child lives with)
- How long it has been since the child had contact with the grandparent
- The effect visitation would have on the child’s relationship with their parents
- The existing parenting time arrangement between the parents (if divorced or separated)
- Whether the grandparent is filing the application in good faith
- Any history of abuse or neglect by the grandparent
- Any other factor relevant to the child’s best interests
When Do Grandparents Seek Visitation?
Grandparent visitation disputes often arise in connection with:
- Divorce or separation of the child’s parents
- Death of a parent
- Estrangement between the grandparent and one or both parents
- Complex custody situations where grandparents have provided significant care
Our Experience
At Musulin Groves & Greenfield, partners Christopher R. Musulin, Esq., Christina M. Groves, Esq., and Kimberly A. Greenfield, Esq., represent grandparents seeking visitation as well as parents responding to grandparent visitation claims. We understand the legal hurdles involved and can help you evaluate your options realistically.
Concerned About Your Rights as a Grandparent In New Jersey?
Contact Musulin Groves & Greenfield, to discuss your situation.
Call 609-267-0070 or contact us online.
We serve clients throughout Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Mercer County—including Haddonfield, Medford, Moorestown, Mt. Laurel, Marlton, Shamong, Tabernacle, Pemberton, Maple Shade, Delran, Delanco, and Cinnaminson.