Grandparents’ Rights

Anxious about not being allowed to see your grandchildren?

Being a grandparent can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Yet if your child’s relationship breaks down – through no fault of yours – it can be difficult to maintain a loving, close relationship with your grandchildren.

Understanding your grandparent’s rights will help you with the process of being able to stay in contact, and at Harrogate Family Law, we will guide you every step of the way with our expert team of family solicitors.

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Do Grandparents Have Rights?

The short answer is, no – by law grandparents themselves do not have automatic rights. But your grandchild does have a right to see you. Sadly, very often, grandparents are overlooked when a couple separates. The end result could be that your grandchildren move away with one parent and you can’t see them, which can be deeply distressing for both the grandparents and the grandchildren.

Under the Children Act 1989, grandparents can apply to court to see their grandchildren. Depending on your specific situation, it may be that you should apply for a court order. This could include a Child Arrangements Order or Special Guardianship Order. At Harrogate Family Law, our solicitors will listen to your situation and advise on the best way to help you see your grandchildren. Although we can’t make up for lost time, we will always aim for the best possible outcome, with your family’s needs as our number one priority.

Local Solicitors in Harrogate, Yorkshire

Our team of family law solicitors is based in Harrogate and we help clients across Yorkshire and further afield with their, often complex, family law matters. Grandparents’ rights can be a sensitive issue and we take the time to listen, respond and act accordingly to your wishes.

We are ranked as a leading law firm for family law by Chambers UK and Legal 500.

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Our Expertise

Chambers 2025 - Andrew Meehan copyLegal 500 2025 - Leading Law FirmWith a leading team of solicitors, we focus on delivering an exceptional client service through the hardest of times.

Why you need Harrogate Family Law

Get a fair deal

We aim to get you everything you’re entitled to, delivering the best deal for your situation.

Keep out of court

95% of our cases are agreed out of court which saves you time, money and stress.

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We spot and avoid problems before they happen.

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With our expert solicitors, you’ll get a better outcome and save money.

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We are caring and compassionate and will look after you.

Meet The Team

‘HFL has an exceptionally strong team of experienced lawyers, led by Laura Mounsey and Andrew Meehan, and talent throughout every level of the firm, as one would expect from a prestigious firm.’

Legal 500 2026

HFL have grown to become a considerable force in family law within Yorkshire, particularly with regards to high-net-worth individuals in Harrogate and the surrounding area.

Legal 500 2026

‘Harrogate Family Law is a Legal 500 leading firm, recognised for its strong technical ability, complex financial cases, and excellent client service, with founder Andrew Meehan and lawyer Laura Mounsey specifically praised by the guide for their expertise.’

Legal 500 2025

‘The Harrogate team are personable, bespoke and client-focused. They don’t resort to a ‘one size fits all’ methodology.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘The team have a robust understanding of factors in my case and how to handle them in a way that keeps conflict to a minimum and achieves the desired outcomes.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Andrew is very understanding and has a lot of experience, meaning he can therefore adapt and manage whatever is thrown at him.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Laura made the whole process feel smooth and manageable, always taking the time to explain each step clearly and keeping me informed throughout.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘They are a tenacious and thorough team.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Thank you. Your service has been invaluable during this difficult time.’

Former client, February 2025

‘The whole team is great. I know it is your job, but you are making this so much easier for me and I really appreciate all that you are doing on my behalf.’

Former client, January 2025