Getting Through Your Divorce

Posted on: 17 January 2023

If you're being denied access to your grandchildren, it's time to get help. Grandparents do have visitation rights in Australia, but you need to follow the right steps. Losing contact with your grandchildren doesn't need to be a permanent thing. A family lawyer can help you get your visitation back. Here are four steps to take when you're denied access to your grandchildren. 

Document the Relationship

If you're no longer allowed to see your grandchildren, now's the time to start a journal. You want to document the relationship you have with your grandchildren. This should include time spent with your grandchildren. It should also include details about the activities. Be sure to include as much detail as you can. This process helps prove that you had an established relationship with your grandchildren. 

Ask to see Grandchildren

If you're being denied access to your grandchildren, try to open the lines of communication. Ask the parents to schedule a visit. If you've already asked, ask again. But, be sure to document each time you ask for permission to see your grandchildren. Also, be sure to keep your requests respectful and considerate. This process shows that you're trying to maintain communication with the parents. And, it also shows that you're trying to maintain a relationship with your grandchildren. 

Request Legal Mediation

If your attempts to see your grandchildren have failed, it's time to request legal mediation. Emotions can run high when grandparents try to get visitation. When lines of communication fail, mediation can help break through the tension. Plus, mediation can help you avoid a lengthy court battle for visitation. Also, if you do come to an agreement during mediation, it gets entered into the court system. That gives you legal standing to continue seeing your grandchildren. 

Speak to a Family Lawyer

If your requests for visits have failed, get legal representation as soon as possible. Don't wait too long for legal representation. This could adversely affect the relationship you have with your grandchildren. One of the benefits of working with a family lawyer is that they can get your case into the court system. But, they can also work behind the scenes to bring your case to an amicable resolution. When you work with a family lawyer, visitation orders become part of the court records. That means you'll have continued access to your grandchildren through a visitation order. 

For more information on family law, contact a professional near you.