When family structures change, grandparents often have to navigate complex legal mazes to have and keep a meaningful role in their grandchildren’s lives. Maryland grandparent visitation and custody laws Grandparents do have visitation and custody rights in Maryland, but the process can be complicated. Patrick Crawford Law will help families in Annapolis, Maryland, understand their options and protect their relationships for the grandparents’ rights in Maryland.
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In Maryland, grandparents can petition for visitation through the courts, but it’s not guaranteed. Judges look at each case based on the child’s best interests, and most require grandparents to show exceptional circumstances such as having been a primary caregiver or other crucial, constant part of the child’s life
What does the court look for? In Maryland, courts consider several factors to determine whether granting visitation is in the child’s best interest:
The court also examines any history of the grandparents being at odds with the child’s parents since too much animosity can affect a child’s stability.
If the grandparents feel the child’s safety or well-being is in jeopardy under the parents’ care, they may seek full custody. But to file for custody, you have to show the parents are unfit, which may include being abusive, neglectful, or addicted to drugs or alcohol. The first step in the legal procedure includes filling out and submitting Maryland’s custody petition form.
There are two general types of grandparent custody that might be awarded:
These unique legal avenues necessitate extensive preparation and legal skills. Our team can help you navigate Maryland’s court system in a way that best serves your family’s needs.
Every custody or visitation case in Maryland is governed by the “best interests of the child” standard. This standard looks at things like:
In Maryland, judges also weigh the child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community to minimize disruption.
If filing for formal custody or visitation isn’t a viable option, grandparents can seek creative ways to stay connected with their grandkids, including:
Structuring such efforts displays commitment, which may help support future legal arguments if formal visitation or custody becomes necessary.
Ensuring a grandchild’s future sometimes requires legal action, such as filing for custody, petitioning for visitation, or establishing guardianship. This can be a complicated process, but with knowledgeable legal counsel, you can protect your rights and interests.
Patrick Crawford Law. Compassionate & Experienced Child Custody Attorney in Annapolis, Maryland. Call (410) 216-7905 today or contact us to get a free consultation.
Patrick Crawford is an Annapolis Family Lawyer dedicated to helping you through the most complex and emotional family law matters. During his career, Patrick has successfully represented countless people in divorce, child custody, child support, domestic violence, and other family law cases of diverse complexity.
Years of experience: 20+ years.
Maryland Registration Status: Active and authorized to practice law.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page has been approved by attorney Patrick Crawford, a legal professional with over 20 years of experience in family law.