What is the legal definition of a grandparent?

In Washington, the legal definition of a grandparent is a person who is related to a minor child as the parent of the child’s parent. Grandparents are not required to be blood relatives, and they may also include stepparents, adoptive parents, or even former in-laws. Grandparents may be given various rights in cases where their relationship with the minor child is determined to be in the best interest of the child. This is why Washington has adopted a Grandparents Rights Law, which recognizes the important role grandparents can have in a child’s life. Under the law, a court can grant visitation or other rights to a grandparent if, among other things, the child’s parent is deceased, the child has resided with the grandparent for a significant length of time, or the grandparent has maintained a close and substantial relationship with the child. The court has the discretion to decide the type of rights that can be granted, including visitation or other forms of contact with the grandchild.

Related FAQs

What is the standard for grandparents to be awarded guardianship of a grandchild?
Are there any resources available to help grandparents understand their legal rights?
Are grandparents allowed to file for child support from the parent of their grandchild?
What do grandparents need to do to prove their relationship with a grandchild?
Is it possible for a grandparent to get visitation rights even if the custodial parent objects?
Can a grandparent request visitation rights?
What are the legal procedures for changing a grandparent’s name on their grandchild’s birth certificate?
Are grandparents’ rights affected by the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Troxel v. Granville?
Is a grandparent required to pay child support if they get custody of a grandchild?
Are grandparents allowed to have their name placed on their grandchild’s birth certificate?

What is the legal definition of a grandparent?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts