Nashville Grandparents’ Rights Lawyer

Grandparents’ Rights Attorney In Nashville, TN

Becoming a grandparent is an exciting thing for most, and it makes sense that you would want to be around your grandchild. If you are struggling to find a place in your grandchild’s life, you might be wondering what rights you have. A Nashville grandparents’ rights lawyer can not only explain those rights, but they can also come up with a plan for you to see your grandchildren.

Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC: Experienced Nashville Grandparents’ Rights Lawyers

At Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC, we are passionate about prioritizing our clients and their needs. We understand how difficult it can be to advocate for the right to see your grandchildren, and we want to help. Because we have years of experience in representing other grandparents just like you, we can carefully hone our skills to create a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Our experienced family law attorneys have an in-depth understanding of grandparents’ rights and a dedication to our clients, so you can rest assured that we can work tirelessly on your behalf. You don’t have to face the complex grandparents’ rights laws alone. We can advocate for you.

Grandparents’ Rights Laws

In the United States, 31% of grandparents who live with their grandchildren are responsible for caring for them. In Tennessee, it is possible to petition for grandparents’ rights if certain circumstances are met. These include the following:

• The parent of the child is deceased.
• The child’s parent is divorced, is legally separated, or was never married.
• The parent has been missing for at least six months.
• Another state’s court has ordered grandparent visitation.
• The child lived with the grandparent for at least 12 months.
• The child and grandparent had a significant relationship for at least 12 months.

If you meet the above circumstances, you may petition for grandparents’ rights. Speak to a Nashville grandparents’ rights attorney today who can take on your case and guide you through the next steps.

Can Grandparents Get Custody of Their Grandchild?

In Tennessee, it might be possible to get custody of your grandchild if certain criteria are met. When deciding who gets custody of a child, the court prioritizes the best interest of the child first and foremost. Grandparents might be awarded custody if:

• The child’s parents have abandoned, abused, or neglected them.
• Both parents pass away.
• The parents are incarcerated.
• Neither parent can fulfill their responsibilities.

It’s also possible for grandparents to be awarded temporary custody if the situation calls for it. If you would like to find out if you might be awarded custody of your grandchild, a grandparents’ rights attorney can listen carefully to your situation and figure out the next course of action.

Hire a Grandparents’ Rights Lawyer

A lawyer who has in-depth experience with grandparents’ rights cases is uniquely qualified to handle your grandparents’ rights case. If you hire a grandparents’ rights lawyer, they can:

• Manage the emotional strain on the family by becoming your mouthpiece.
• Explain the details of your grandparent rights in Tennessee.
• Investigate the situation.
• Craft a strategy so you can see your grandchildren.
• Interview witnesses who can testify on your behalf.
• Gather evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiate on your behalf.
• Prepare necessary legal documents.
• Represent you in court, either at the Metro Courthouse on Public Square in Nashville or elsewhere.

A grandparents’ rights lawyer understands how to argue on your behalf. They can present the necessary evidence that shows your involvement in your grandchild’s life and how it could be beneficial to them as they grow. They can collect photographs, letters, emails, videos, and more that prove your close relationship with your grandchild. Having someone who’s willing to advocate on your behalf can increase your chances of a positive outcome.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Pursue Your Grandparent Rights?

How much it costs to pursue your grandparent rights depends on the case. A straightforward grandparents’ rights case could cost less than a complicated one that requires extra preparation and negotiations. Early dispute resolution and preparation can reduce your costs, but it usually depends on the circumstances surrounding the case and how easy they are to resolve. A Nashville grandparents’ rights attorney can provide an estimate for your unique situation.

What Legal Rights Do Grandparents Have in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a defined statute applicable to grandparents’ rights. For the court, the priority is the child’s best interest. Grandparents aren’t automatically granted visitation rights, so they must go through the court. Reasons why a grandparent might seek visitation could be divorce, the death of a parent, a missing parent, or a parent who has been denied visitation. If the child has lived with the grandparents for at least twelve months, they might also seek visitation.

What Can I Do If I Can’t See My Grandchildren?

Not being able to see grandchildren can be devastating. Generally, grandparents don’t have a legal right to see their grandchildren, and most states won’t intervene if the child’s immediate family is intact. Grandparents may petition for the right to see their grandchild if:

• The parents are found to be unfit.
• A parent passes away.
• A parent agrees that they can take custody.

Speak to a Nashville grandparents’ rights attorney to find out if your situation requires action.

Can I File a Claim Against My Son for Not Letting Me See My Grandkids?

Whether you can file a claim against your son depends on the circumstances. Trying to solve the issues out of court is usually the optimal way to begin. Perhaps agreeing to a visitation schedule or working through a mediator or grandparents’ rights lawyer can help you figure out what your specific options might be, according to your unique situation. Before taking drastic action, speak with your lawyer to develop a plan.

Contact Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC

Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC has represented multiple grandparents and understands how to protect your rights. These kinds of situations can grow contentious quickly, so having someone on your side to explain the process and work on your behalf can be vital for success.

To find out how we can help you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.