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Grandparent Rights & Custody In New York

Grandparents play a crucial role in the lives of their grandchildren, offering love, stability, and guidance. However, when family dynamics change due to divorce, separation, or the death of a parent, grandparents may wonder about their legal rights regarding custody and visitation. In New York, grandparents' rights are recognized under certain circumstances, but they are often complex and dependent on the best interests of the child. Here’s a detailed overview of what you need to know about grandparent rights and custody in New York, brought to you by The Law Offices of Karl Brodzansky.



Visitation Rights for Grandparents in New York


In New York, grandparents can petition the court for visitation rights with their grandchildren under specific conditions, but it’s not automatically granted. The court will carefully consider whether granting visitation is in the child’s best interests, which involves a two-step process:


  1. Standing to Seek Visitation: Grandparents must first establish "standing," meaning they have the legal right to ask for visitation. Standing can be established if:

    • One or both parents are deceased.

    • Extraordinary circumstances exist, such as a disruption in the family unit (e.g., the parents are divorced or separated).


  2. Simply disagreeing with the parents or being estranged from them may not be sufficient grounds to gain standing for visitation.


  3. Best Interests of the Child: Once standing is established, the court will evaluate whether visitation is in the best interests of the child. Factors include:

    • The existing relationship between the grandparent and the child.

    • The stability and consistency of the grandparent's presence in the child’s life.

    • The wishes of the child, especially if the child is old enough to express a preference.


  4. The court's primary focus will always be the child’s well-being, and visitation will be granted only if it benefits the child.


Custody Rights for Grandparents in New York


While it is more common for grandparents to seek visitation, there are situations where they may also petition for custody. Grandparents in New York may seek custody of their grandchildren if they can prove that:


  • Both parents are unfit to care for the child due to neglect, abandonment, or other serious circumstances.


  • Extraordinary circumstances exist, such as the parents being unable to care for the child due to incarceration, substance abuse, or mental illness.


Extraordinary Circumstances and Custody


In New York, "extraordinary circumstances" must be demonstrated before a court will consider granting custody to someone other than the biological parents, including grandparents. Extraordinary circumstances can include situations where the child has lived with the grandparents for an extended period, or if the grandparents have acted as the primary caregivers due to the parents’ inability or unwillingness to care for the child.


If extraordinary circumstances are established, the court will then apply the same "best interests of the child" standard used in custody disputes between parents. The grandparents must show that their gaining custody would promote the child’s welfare and stability​. 


Factors the Court Considers in Custody Cases

When determining whether to grant custody to grandparents, the court will evaluate several factors, including:


  • The emotional bonds between the child and the grandparents.

  • The stability of the home environment provided by the grandparents.

  • The health, safety, and financial stability of the grandparents.

  • The child's educational and emotional needs.

  • The wishes of the child, if they are old enough to express a preference.


Ultimately, the court's goal is to ensure that the child is placed in the most stable, loving, and supportive environment possible​.


Why Choose The Law Offices of Karl Brodzansky?

At The Law Offices of Karl Brodzansky, we understand how sensitive and complex grandparent rights and custody cases can be. With over 30 years of experience in family law, we are committed to helping grandparents navigate the legal system to protect their relationship with their grandchildren. Here’s why you should trust us with your case:


  1. Extensive Experience in Family Law: With a strong background in handling cases involving custody, visitation, and family dynamics, Karl Brodzansky is well-versed in New York family law. We are prepared to represent your interests with compassion and diligence.


  2. Personalized Approach: We recognize that every family situation is unique. Our legal team takes the time to understand the specific circumstances of your case and crafts personalized legal strategies to achieve the best outcome for you and your grandchildren.


  3. Commitment to Protecting Children’s Best Interests: In custody and visitation cases, the child’s well-being is our top priority. We work tirelessly to ensure that children are placed in environments that promote their emotional and physical health, whether that means granting visitation or pursuing custody.


  4. Skilled Negotiation and Litigation: Whether your case requires negotiation with the parents or litigation in court, The Law Offices of Karl Brodzansky is equipped to handle every aspect of your case. Our goal is to reach amicable solutions whenever possible but to advocate strongly on your behalf if the situation goes to court.


Contact Us Today

If you’re a grandparent seeking visitation or custody rights, it’s important to have experienced legal representation on your side. The Law Offices of Karl Brodzansky offers a free consultation to help you explore your options and take the first step toward securing your relationship with your grandchildren.


Call us today at (516) 248-2727 or visit our office in Garden City, New York, to learn more about how we can assist you.




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