Can a grandparent be awarded custody if there are concerns about the health and safety of their grandchild?

In North Carolina, a grandparent can be awarded custody if there are concerns about the health and safety of their grandchild. North Carolina has Grandparents Rights Law that allows a court to decide who should have legal custody of a minor child. The court must make a determination if awarding custody to the grandparent is in the best interests of the child. The court will consider evidence of harm or potential harm to the child in determining the best interest of the child. In order to have standing to bring a legal action for custody or visitation, the grandparent must demonstrate that the parent has abused, neglected, or abandoned the minor child, or that the minor child lives with the grandparent for at least six continuous months. In addition, the grandparent must demonstrate that granting custody or visitation is in the best interests of the minor child. If the court finds that granting custody or visitation to the grandparent is in the best interests of the minor child, then the court will grant the grandparent custody or visitation. The court will also consider the wishes of the parents and the child, the relationship between the grandparent and the child, and the ability of the grandparent to provide a safe and stable home environment. The court may also consider any other factors that are deemed relevant in determining what is in the best interests of the minor child.

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Can a grandparent be awarded custody if there are concerns about the health and safety of their grandchild?

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