Raising Grandchildren in Colorado
Raising grandchildren can be a rewarding experience for many grandparents, but there are legal steps that must be taken to ensure a successful transition. Grandparents in Colorado should be aware of the following legal considerations when taking on the responsibility of caring for their grandchildren.
First and foremost, grandparents should always seek legal counsel when making decisions about caring for their grandchildren. Some common issues can be addressed without the need for legal advice. However, situations involving divorce, guardianship, adoption, or a child in need of special services require assistance from an experienced and knowledgeable attorney.
In Colorado, family law allows grandparents to become guardians of their grandchildren if it is in the best interest of the child. A guardianship action assigns legal and physical custody to the grandparents and removes the parents’ rights to care, custody, and control of the child. Becoming a legal guardian comes with responsibility, and there are certain requirements and procedures that must be followed in order to be successful. Grandparents should consult an experienced attorney to ensure they are properly complying with the law to obtain legal guardianship.
Grandparents may also choose to pursue an adoption if they would like to take on a more permanent role in their grandchild’s life. While adoption can be challenging, it is entirely possible to keep the child in the family if the prospective adoptive parents and biological parents agree to the process. To ensure a successful adoption, grandparents should reach out to an attorney who knows the relevant adoption laws and any potential issues that may arise.
Another important legal consideration involves accessing any needed financial assistance. If the grandparents are exploring the option of legally taking custody of their grandchild, then they may also qualify for assistance from state and/or local agencies. Financial assistance programs such as Colorado’s Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program can provide important resources for housing, daycare, and medical expenses.
Grandparents raising grandchildren in Colorado should always seek qualified legal advice when making decisions about their grandchildren. Doing so ensures the grandparents have the information they need to make informed decisions about the best interests of the children in their care. An experienced family law attorney can advise the grandparents on the best course of action to ensure a successful transition and long-term stability for the grandchild.
If you have questions about the custody or guardianship of your grandchildren, contact our experienced team of family law attorneys today at 303-261-8111.