Many grandparents in Texas have had to make the difficult decision of getting custody of their grandchildren. Raising children for the second time can be challenging, especially since you’re much older now than you were when you raised your kids. However, getting custody of your grandchildren can also provide them a safe, secure home environment.
What should grandparents keep in mind when they raise their grandkids?
In extreme cases of child neglect or abuse, a judge might rule in favor of grandparent conservatorship. During this time, the grandchildren might be stressed and frustrated about losing contact with their parents. You know that this is the right decision, but your grandchildren don’t understand that–in their minds, someone just took them away from their loving parents. It’s important to be patient with them and not take their frustration personally.
You should also remember that if your grandchildren act out, this doesn’t mean that you’re a bad parent (or grandparent.) Most children don’t act out because they want to be bad–they act out because they’re frustrated and don’t know what else to do. Your grandchildren might need discipline, but they also need to know that you won’t stop loving them because of their bad behavior.
Finally, it’s important to set up a routine for your grandchildren. If they came from a toxic living situation, they might have had no idea what to expect when they woke up every morning. Your family law attorney could offer advice on providing a stable environment for your grandchildren.
Can grandparents get custody of their grandchildren?
Even in cases of abuse or neglect, it’s difficult for grandparents to get custody of their grandchildren. Parents have much stronger legal rights over their children than the grandparents do. However, an attorney might be able to help you pursue a successful custody case in court.