Census data shows that over 2 million grandparents in the United States are the primary caregivers of their grandchildren. Many grandparents end up raising their grandchildren because the natural parents have died, struggle with substance abuse or mental health, or because they have abused, abandoned, or neglected the child. Whatever the circumstances, many children are blessed to have their grandparents step up to provide love, support, and stability.
Perhaps you are a grandparent who has already been caring for your grandchild for several months or years. You have already been fulfilling that parental role, and you have taken on the financial and emotional responsibility for your grandchild. Maybe a court has even granted you legal custody. What would a grandparent adoption change or accomplish?
It can bring permanency to your grandchild’s life. Family circumstances can be ever-changing and unpredictable. Natural parents or other family members coming in and out of your grandchild’s life can be emotionally damaging, especially if there are long, regular periods of no contact and no effort.
Children need stable relationships so that they can form healthy attachments in adulthood. When the adoption is finalized, you, the grandparents, are treated in every way, shape, and form as the adoptee’s parents. You will have the ability to keep your grandchild safe – physically, mentally, and emotionally – and your grandchild will know that your home is their home, permanently.
Adoption will also affect inheritance, insurance, and other benefits that can provide your grandchild with the resources they need.
And finally, adoption will solemnize the loving, parent-child bond that you have already formed with your grandchild, with all the legal protection and support you need.
We would love to help you adopt your Grandchild or close family member. Please give us a call to set up a consultation.
Click here to watch a short video about Relative Adoption with Attorney Gretchen Hedke:
