Including Grandparents in a Parenting Plan

Grandparents have no rights to time with a grandchild.  However, when grandparents play a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives, it can add a layer of complexity to Florida divorces. Some find that it makes sense to add language in a parenting plan that involves other family members, such as grandparents. To explore this option, talk to a Port St. Lucie family law attorney. A lawyer will listen closely to your objectives and share strategies with you for securing the arrangement you want.

Parenting Plans and Extended Family Members

Each family has its own unique dynamic, and in some families grandparents are heavily involved in the upbringing of multiple generations. Then, it may make sense to include them in a parenting plan. Involving grandparents in a plan can be advantageous in several scenarios.

• Established relationships. If grandparents have been actively involved in a child’s life, providing emotional support, childcare, or financial assistance, it makes sense to formalize their role in the parenting plan. This ensures that the child continues to benefit from these strong relationships post-divorce.
• Parental absence. In cases where one or both parents may be frequently absent due to work commitments, military service, or health issues, involving grandparents in the parenting plan can provide continuity for a child.
• Support network. Divorce can be stressful for children, and having a broader support network can help them cope. Grandparents can offer additional love, guidance, and stability.

It is important to recognize that while you may want to add grandparent visitation to a parenting plan, in the state of Florida, grandparents do not have this right nor will it be enforced in court.

There are rare situations when a grandparent can fight for visitation after a divorce. These include when a grandparent can demonstrate that the child’s current living situation with their parents is harmful or detrimental to a child’s well-being or one or both parents are deemed unfit.

Strategies for Family Harmony Post-Divorce 

Establishing family harmony after a divorce is crucial for all parties involved, particularly the children. Because of this, it is best to encourage open and respectful communication throughout the process, when possible.

For example, you and your co-parent may agree that consistent visitation schedules including grandparents ensures that children have regular, predictable interactions with all significant family members. A stability that can help the child adjust to the new family dynamics.

Avoiding conflicts that are upsetting for the children is the goal, and for some utilizing mediation services can be beneficial. A neutral third party, such as a Port St. Lucie family law attorney, can facilitate discussions and help create a mutually agreeable parenting plan.

Do you want to talk to a legal expert about divorce and the role of an extended family? Consulting with the knowledgeable family lawyers at Baginski, Brandt & Brandt ensures that your parenting plan will be legally sound and that, if you choose, other family members’ roles will be clearly defined. Contact us today to book your confidential consultation.