Grandparents in Pennsylvania have specific rights that allow them to seek visitation or custody when a child’s wellbeing is at risk. As Pittsburgh grandparent rights attorneys, Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace provides guidance and representation to grandparents who want to protect their relationship with a grandchild. Families reach out to us because we understand how emotional these matters can be and know how to build strong, evidence-based petitions that reflect a child’s needs. Our goal is to help you secure meaningful involvement in your grandchild’s life through a clear, steady legal strategy.
Why Choose Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace?
We help grandparents understand their options and build persuasive custody or visitation cases when court action is required. Families turn to us because we offer:
- A practical, clear explanation of your rights under Pennsylvania law
- Strategic guidance for visitation and custody petitions
- Support during emotionally difficult family situations
- Deep courtroom experience in Allegheny County and surrounding communities
- A steady, organized approach that keeps your case moving
When Can Grandparents Seek Visitation in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania allows grandparents to request visitation under limited circumstances. Courts do not automatically grant grandparent visitation; instead, they weigh specific statutory factors. You may have the ability to file for visitation if:
- A parent has passed away, or
- The parents have been separated for at least six months or have instituted divorce proceedings, or
- The child has lived with you for at least 12 consecutive months before being removed by a parent
Visitation rights are not meant to interfere with a parent’s authority. Courts look closely at whether visits will support the child, maintain an existing bond, and promote emotional stability. We help you document your relationship with your grandchild and present a clear case showing how consistent visits serve the child’s best interests.
When Can Grandparents Seek Physical or Legal Custody?
In some situations, Pennsylvania law permits grandparents to request custody. The standard is different and typically more demanding than visitation. You may file for partial, shared, or primary custody if:
- You have an established, ongoing relationship with the child
- You have taken on a significant, consistent caregiving role
- The child has lived with you for at least 12 consecutive months before returning to a parent’s home
- The child is at risk due to abuse, neglect, substance use, or instability in the parent’s home
Custody petitions require detailed evidence. Courts evaluate safety, daily care, emotional connections, school stability, and how the child is functioning in your home. We gather records, witness accounts, and other documentation to show why your home provides a safe and supportive environment.
How Do Courts View Grandparents in Custody Matters?
Pennsylvania courts start with the presumption that parents have the primary right to raise their children. Grandparents do not stand on equal footing with parents, but the law recognizes that grandparents often play an important role when families face hardship.
Courts assess:
- The existing relationship between the grandparent and child
- The child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs
- Any history of caregiving provided by the grandparent
- Parental challenges such as addiction, domestic violence, incarceration, or instability
- Whether granting custody or visitation preserves the child’s well-being
We prepare your case so the judge has a clear picture of the child’s daily life, the challenges they face, and how your involvement supports their long-term growth.
What Evidence Can Help Demonstrate That Grandparent Involvement Benefits a Child?
The court’s focus is always on the child’s best interests. We often help clients gather materials such as:
- School reports showing consistency when the child is in your care
- Medical or counseling records demonstrating improved stability
- Statements from teachers, neighbors, or caregivers
- Records showing the time spent living in your home
- Documentation of parental issues affecting safety or well-being
This type of evidence helps tell the full story of the child’s needs and the support you provide.
How We Support You Through the Legal Process
Grandparent rights cases can be stressful because they involve sensitive family relationships. We work with you to create a plan that fits the child’s situation, whether that means seeking visitation, temporary physical custody, or long-term legal custody.
Our team will:
- Evaluate your eligibility to file under Pennsylvania law
- Recommend the most effective petition
- Prepare all filings and evidence
- Represent you in conferences, hearings, and trial
- Work toward a resolution that keeps the child safe and connected to family
Talk With a Pittsburgh Grandparent Rights Attorney Today
If you believe your grandchild needs more support, or if you have been cut off from a meaningful relationship, legal action may be appropriate. Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace can help you understand your rights and develop a strategy that centers on the child’s well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a grandparent seek emergency custody in Pennsylvania?
Yes. If a child faces immediate risk due to abuse or unsafe living conditions, you may petition for emergency relief.
Does adoption by a stepparent end grandparent rights?
It can. However, certain exceptions apply, especially when the grandparent already has court-ordered visitation.
Do grandparents have rights if the parents were never married?
Yes. Eligibility depends on the child’s living arrangements and whether you have an existing relationship.