Protecting the Rights of Grandparents in Pennsylvania

Grandparents often play an essential role in the lives of their grandchildren. When family conflicts arise, or when a parent is unable to provide proper care, grandparents may wonder what legal rights they have to seek custody or visitation. At Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C., our experienced Pennsylvania family law attorneys help grandparents across the state assert their rights and protect their relationships with their grandchildren.

We proudly serve clients in Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia, Berks, Lehigh, Northampton, and Lancaster Counties.

Do Grandparents Have Rights in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Pennsylvania law provides grandparents with certain rights to seek custody or visitation under specific circumstances, including when:

  • A parent is deceased
  • The parents are divorced or separated
  • A child has lived with the grandparent for at least 12 consecutive months
  • A grandparent has taken on a caregiving role due to parental neglect, substance abuse, or incapacity

Our attorneys evaluate your case and determine whether you qualify to petition the court for custody or visitation.

Types of Grandparents’ Rights in PA

Pennsylvania recognizes different forms of legal rights for grandparents, including:

  • Partial Physical Custody / Visitation – Court-ordered time with a grandchild when it is in the child’s best interest.
  • Primary or Shared Custody – Granted when grandparents have been the primary caregivers or when parents are unable to provide proper care.
  • In Loco Parentis Rights – Legal recognition of a grandparent acting as a parent when they’ve assumed that role in the child’s life.

Factors Pennsylvania Courts Consider

When determining whether to grant grandparents custody or visitation, courts look at:

  • The best interests of the child
  • The relationship between grandparent and grandchild
  • The child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs
  • The wishes of the child (if age-appropriate)
  • Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse by parents

Our attorneys know how to present strong evidence that demonstrates why maintaining a relationship with you is in the best interest of your grandchild.

Why Work With Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C.?

  • Extensive experience in Pennsylvania custody and visitation cases
  • Knowledge of local courts in Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia, Berks, Lehigh, Northampton & Lancaster
  • Compassionate guidance through sensitive family conflicts
  • Aggressive advocacy to protect your rights and your grandchild’s well-being

Schedule a Consultation

If you are a grandparent seeking custody or visitation rights in Pennsylvania, you do not have to face this process alone. Contact our firm today to speak with an experienced Pennsylvania grandparents’ rights attorney.