Grandparents’ Rights Solicitors in West Sussex

Family disputes can be especially difficult for grandparents who want to maintain a strong relationship with their grandchildren but are unsure of their legal rights.

At Bennett Griffin, our experienced grandparents’ rights solicitors in Worthing and Chichester provide clear, compassionate advice to help you understand your options and protect your family bond.

Whether you need early guidance, mediation support or court representation, we are here to stand by your side.

Contact our Family Law team today.

Call us on 01903 229999 (Worthing) or 01243 256370 (Chichester) to discuss your situation in confidence.

Understanding Grandparents’ Rights In The UK

Grandparents play a vital role in their grandchildren’s lives, offering stability, love and guidance.

However, unlike parents, grandparents in the UK do not have automatic legal rights to spend time with their grandchildren.

If family relationships break down, grandparents may need to explore legal avenues to secure or maintain contact.

You may also find our guide explaining grandparents’ rights helpful.

The courts recognise that children usually benefit from ongoing relationships with their grandparents, and with the right advice, it is often possible to put formal arrangements in place.

Do Grandparents Have Automatic Rights?

No, grandparents do not automatically have legal rights to see their grandchildren.

However, the family courts understand the importance of these relationships and will generally support contact where it is in the child’s best interests.

Our role as grandparents’ rights lawyers is to help you understand the process, from informal negotiation through to formal applications, ensuring you take the right steps at the right time.

Mediation and Early Resolution

Before applying to court, grandparents are usually encouraged to try mediation. This process involves an independent mediator helping families reach an agreement without the need for a judge.

Mediation can:

• Reduce conflict and tension between parents and grandparents
• Keep decision-making within the family rather than the court
• Provide a quicker, more cost-effective solution

Our solicitors can guide you through the mediation process and represent your interests if an agreement cannot be reached.

If you are unsure whether mediation is right for you, our grandparents’ rights solicitors can explain your options and support you through the process.

Applying for a Child Arrangements Order

If mediation is unsuccessful, grandparents may apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order.

Because grandparents do not have automatic rights, you will first need the court’s permission to make the application.

This is usually granted, given the important role grandparents play.

A Child Arrangements Order can:

• Confirm the time grandchildren will spend with you
• Set clear, enforceable arrangements recognised by the court

In some cases, allow grandchildren to live with grandparents if that is in their best interests

If you are considering applying for a Child Arrangements Order, speak to our expert team.

We will guide you through each stage and ensure your case is properly prepared.

The Role of Cafcass

In some cases, the court may request that the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) prepare a report.

This involves speaking with family members and making recommendations based on the child’s welfare.

Our solicitors will ensure that your views are properly considered during the Cafcass process and that your relationship with your grandchildren is acknowledged.

Our experienced lawyers will ensure your voice is heard during the Cafcass process and that your relationship with your grandchildren is recognised.

How Bennett Griffin Can Help

At Bennett Griffin, we understand the emotional weight grandparents carry when they fear losing contact with their grandchildren.

Our dedicated grandparents’ rights solicitors provide:

• Personalised advice on your rights and legal options
• Support with mediation and negotiation
• Skilled representation in court hearings
• Local, trusted expertise from our Worthing and Chichester offices

We will always prioritise the child’s best interests while advocating for your role in their lives.

Contact our Family Law team on either 01903 229999 or 01243 256370.

Alternatively, complete the online form below, and a member of our team will reply to you shortly.

Grandparents’ Rights FAQs

Do grandparents have legal rights in the UK?

Grandparents do not have automatic legal rights, but they can apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order. The court’s main consideration is the child’s welfare, and it usually recognises the value of maintaining relationships with grandparents.

Can grandparents get an order for a grandchild to live with them?

Yes. If it is in the child’s best interests, the court can grant an order for a child to live with their grandparents. These cases can be complex, so specialist legal advice is essential.

Do I need a solicitor to apply for grandparents’ rights?

While it is possible to make an application without legal support, working with an experienced solicitor ensures your case is properly prepared and your chances of success are maximised.

What happens if the parents object?

The court will consider both sides but ultimately make its decision based on what is in the child’s best interests. Having clear legal representation ensures your voice is heard and your relationship with your grandchildren is fully considered.

How long does the process take?

Timescales vary depending on whether mediation is successful or if a court application is required. Mediation can take weeks, while court proceedings may take several months.

How much does it cost to apply for grandparents’ rights?

Costs vary depending on whether your case can be resolved through mediation or needs a court application. We will provide clear information on fees from the outset so you know exactly what to expect.

Our Family team discuss Family Law-related matters on their regular podcast ‘Legal Mythbusting – Family Matters‘ – the full playlist can be watched below or viewed directly on YouTube.