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Reconnecting Families: A Grandparents’ Rights Client Success Story

May 8, 2024
2’ read
Child Custody
Bill HenryFounding Partner | 18 years of experience
Profile Picture of Attorney Bill Henry
Profile Picture of Attorney Bill Henry
Bill HenryFounding Partner 18 years of experience

Robinson & Henry client Thomas shares his experience working with R&H navigating grandparents’ rights. In family law, where emotions often run high, this case shows the impact of legal expertise in reuniting families. 

With the help and guidance of Robinson & Henry, Thomas and his wife sought visitation rights for their grandchild when the child’s parents faced challenges with drug addiction.

Despite numerous challenges, the legal process eventually led to a positive outcome for the grandparents, reconnecting the family in the end and securing grandparents’ rights. Thomas sat down with R&H Marketing to discuss his experience working with R&H.

Past results afford no guarantee of future results; each matter is different and must be judged on its own merits. Facts are those of an actual Robinson & Henry case. We used only our client’s first name to protect his privacy.

Navigating Family Turmoil

Our clients, Thomas and his wife, found themselves in a difficult position as his stepdaughter struggled with addiction and her young son faced an uncertain future. 

With the child temporarily placed under the care of paternal grandparents and the possibility of foster care or adoption, Thomas and his wife began the legal journey to secure their grandparents’ rights and safeguard their grandchild’s well-being.

“We wanted to make sure that we could get to see the child and that he wouldn’t be taken away or adopted,” said Thomas. 

The case began with the intervention of the Department of Human Services or Child Protective Services due to the child’s parents being involved in drug-related issues. 

The child was temporarily placed with the paternal grandparents, leading our clients to file a motion for grandparents’ rights. Another factor Thomas and his wife had to consider was whether the child’s parents could complete rehab and maintain their sobriety. “We were afraid that because Child Protective Services was involved that the child could go into foster care,” he recalls.

Fighting for Family Stability

The path to resolution was filled with challenges from the paternal grandparents and initial resistance from their daughter. 

“She was in danger of losing her parental rights permanently. And by that same token, we were afraid we would lose whatever rights we had as grandparents if we didn’t step in and establish our grandparent rights,” explained Thomas.

Despite these hurdles, R&H Family Law attorneys emphasized the importance of maintaining their composure and staying cooperative throughout the process, even in the face of adversity.

“It was a lot of emotions, and it was ugly for a long time,” he recalls.

Cooperation and Patience

Thomas and his wife had to prove their credibility and willingness to adhere to the Department of Human Services’ requirements. 

The grandparents successfully showed their commitment to the child’s well-being by complying with all demands and cooperating with DHS.

Their dedication to the child’s welfare, coupled with R&H’s legal expertise, laid the groundwork for a positive outcome.

“They were always on top of it before something happened or had a plan. They communicated with us. We weren’t kept in the dark. We knew what was going on and how things might go. I think they did a very, very good job,” he explained.

Revelations and Resolution

As the case progressed, it became evident that the paternal grandparents were acting in bad faith, further complicating an already delicate situation. 

However, with their daughter’s successful recovery from addiction, the situation began to improve. Thomas’ stepdaughter acknowledged the value of her parents’ presence in her child’s life. 

The Department of Human Services also recognized the importance of our client’s involvement in their grandchild’s life, leading to a resolution in their favor.

“My wife, she was crying. I mean, she was so happy. She couldn’t believe it,” he said.

Securing Grandparents’ Rights

The court granted grandparents’ rights to Thomas and his wife, acknowledging their role as fit and loving caregivers. 

While initial visitation was established, the door remained open for additional time, subject to mutual agreement with the child’s mother.

“She’s in a healthy place, a happy place. She’s like a totally different person now, and she loves her son. It’s amazing what a good Mom she is,” Thomas said.

R&H also secured a contingency plan in the court order, allowing the grandparents to seek immediate intervention if unforeseen challenges arise. 

This proactive approach ensures ongoing protection for their grandchild’s well-being, providing peace of mind for the family.

“I would say we are happy with the experience. You did a very good job for us,” he said.

Thomas’ story shows the power of legal advocacy in preserving family bonds. Through collaboration, perseverance, and skilled representation, he and his wife navigated complex legal terrain to secure a brighter future for their grandchild. 

R&H demonstrated unwavering commitment, underscoring the firm’s dedication to client success and the well-being of families.

If you have questions about grandparents’ rights, allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, mediation, or any family law matter, give us a call. Our family law attorneys can discuss your case, rights, and options. Call 303-688-0944 to begin your case assessment.

Past results afford no guarantee of future results. Each matter is different and must be judged on its own merits. Facts are those of an actual Robinson & Henry case.