McKenzie Friend for Grandparent's Rights
Your Path to Reuniting with Grandchildren: Affordable Help
If you’re a grandparent who wants to reconnect with your grandchildren, our affordable, flexible services are designed to help. Don’t let high solicitor costs stand in the way.
What You Might Be Facing Right Now:
You’re struggling to see your grandchildren after a family split.
You’re feeling frustrated by a lack of legal recognition as a grandparent.
You’re worried about how your absence might impact your grandchildren.
You’re unsure how to navigate the legal process for visitation.
Free Consultation Available ↓
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With over 300 five-star reviews across Google, Facebook, and “Find a McKenzie Friend,”
we’re proud to be the top-rated McKenzie Friends for family law in the UK. Real stories, real results—See how we’ve
helped families like yours.
Step-by-Step Legal Process for Grandparent's Rights
If you’re a grandparent looking to stay involved in your grandchildren’s lives after a family split, the legal process may feel confusing. But you don’t have to go through it alone. At McKenzie Friends, we’re here to help you out, offering affordable support that’s just as effective as hiring a solicitor. We provide expert assistance with mediation, court applications, hearings, and more.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to know and how we can help:
Start With Mediation
Mediation is the best way to start. It's a chance to talk openly with your grandchildren's parents in a safe space. If mediation doesn't work, we can help you with the next steps.
Get Permission from the Court
If mediation doesn’t succeed, the next step is to seek the court’s permission to apply for a Child Arrangements Order. This permission is essential, and we’ll help with the paperwork and process to keep things smooth.
Filling the Application
Once you have permission, you can apply for a Child Arrangements Order to formalise your time with your grandchildren. We’ll help you complete the forms correctly to avoid delays.
The First Hearing
The court will schedule a first hearing, where an advisor reviews the case to see if an agreement is possible. We’ll support you in preparing for this meeting to present your case confidently.
Fact-Finding Hearing
If concerns of harm or abuse arise, the court may schedule a fact-finding hearing. This stage can be complex, but our McKenzie Friends are here with expertise in family law to guide you through it.
Further Hearings & Proofs
If no agreement is reached, additional hearings are held. A judge will consider evidence from both sides, including professional reports. Our team is skilled in all hearings and will ensure your voice is heard.
The Final Hearing
After all hearings, the judge will make a decision based on the child’s best interests. If the judge approves contact, they'll issue a Child Arrangements Order.
Step-by-Step Legal Process for Grandparent's Rights
No, grandparents don’t have an automatic right to apply for a Child Arrangements Order in the UK. Before making an application, you must first get permission from the court. This step helps the court ensure that each application aligns with the child’s best interests.
When deciding whether to grant permission, the court looks at factors like:
Born With Your Child
The court will consider the bond and the role you’ve played in the child’s life. We can assist in gathering statements, photos, or written examples that demonstrate the valuable role you play in your grandchild’s life.
Reason for Applying
The court wants to see that the application is genuine and supportive of the child’s well-being. Our team will help you create a strong application that shows your genuine commitment to your grandchild's well-being.
Potential Risks
If there is any history of family conflict or previous issues, the court examines how contact may affect the child. We’ll prepare you for court by discussing any concerns you may have for your grand child's best interest.
The Parents’ Position
The family court also checks the views of the child’s parents and their openness to your involvement. If they're not supportive, it may be more challenging to get the outcome you want.
Your Health and Ability to Support
The court will consider your ability to meet your grandchild's physical and emotional needs. We help organise evidence that illustrates your capability to offer a safe, caring environment for your grandchild.
Get Help from McKenzie Friends UK
Let our McKenzie Friends team support you at every step—from mediation to final hearings. We offer expert guidance and mediation services to help you find peaceful solutions before turning to the court.
Affordable. Flexible. & Personal.
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Affordable Services
Avoid costly solicitor fees without compromising on quality support. -
Flexible Support
We work around your schedule, unlike law firms with rigid hours. -
Experienced Team
We specialise in family law for grandparents and understand the complexities involved.
FAQs - Common Questions Grandparents Have
To apply for a child arrangements order as a grandparent, you must complete a C100 application form and send it to the court. You will also need to pay a court fee. You may also need to provide supporting evidence, such as affidavits from other family members or friends.
Yes. In cases where neither parent can care for the child, grandparents can apply for a Special Guardianship Order, granting them custody. Courts will assess your capacity to provide a stable, caring environment.
Not automatically. Each case is evaluated on its merits, focusing on the child’s best interest. But if you’ve been a positive presence, it can support your application for contact.
It varies, depending on factors like whether mediation is attempted first or if the case goes to court. We can help speed up the application process by ensuring all paperwork is completed accurately. And yes, our team also offers mediation services at a fraction of cost.
While parents’ opinions matter, they don’t have the final say. If the court sees value in the grandparent-grandchild relationship, your request may still be granted, even if opposed.
Family Court Help Wherever You Need It
Locations: 3 offices + in-person/remote support at major UK family courts.
We can also travel to your court for assistance wherever you are.
Main Office - Birmingham
Regional Office - London
- +44 20 8150 6881
- info@mckenziefriend.net
- Mon - Sunday (9 AM - 8 PM)
- 5 Chancery Ln, London WC2A 1LG, United Kingdom
Regional Office - Manchester
- +44 161 669 6269
- info@mckenziefriend.net
- Mon - Sunday (9 AM - 8 PM)
- 3 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2BN, United Kingdom
Book Your Free Consultation
Be there for your grandchild—start your court application with our trusted McKenzie Friends. Get support within 24 hours.
