Grandparents’ Rights Explained: The Costs of Seeking Contact

Grandparents play an important role in the lives of children, but when families break down, they can sometimes find themselves excluded from contact. In England and Wales, grandparents do not have an automatic right to see their grandchildren, but they can apply to the court for permission. Understandably, many grandparents worry about how much this process costs and whether they can afford to pursue their rights.

The first thing to know is that before applying to court, grandparents are usually expected to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, known as a MIAM. Mediation costs vary, but most sessions are between £100 and £150 each. If an agreement is reached at this stage, court proceedings may not be necessary, saving considerable expense.

If mediation does not resolve the issue, an application can be made to the family court. The court fee to apply for permission to make a child arrangements order is currently £263. In some cases, grandparents may be eligible for fee reductions depending on their income. Once the application is lodged, the court will decide whether to grant permission based on the relationship between the grandparent and grandchild, the level of involvement, and whether contact is in the child’s best interests.

If permission is granted, the next stage is to apply for a child arrangements order to set out when and how contact will take place. This can add further costs, particularly if the case is contested. Legal representation at this stage is highly recommended, but solicitor fees vary widely depending on complexity. At Haris Law Solicitors, we can offer fixed fee packages.

Some grandparents choose to represent themselves to save money. While this is possible, the process can be daunting, and mistakes may delay the outcome. Having a solicitor ensures that the application is presented clearly and professionally, which can make a big difference in court.

Overall, the cost of pursuing grandparents’ rights depends on whether the case is resolved at mediation or goes through contested hearings.

If you are a grandparent seeking contact with your grandchildren, our family law solicitors can explain the process, provide an estimate of costs, and support you every step of the way.

Protecting your relationship with your grandchildren is possible, and with the right guidance, you can pursue contact in a clear and cost-effective manner.