Whatever the reason and situation, these grandparents face a range of difficulties, including legal and policy challenges. Many organizations that provide services for both generations are not prepared to deal with the special needs and situations that occur when grandparents take on a primary caregiver role or want to assume a larger role in their grandchildren's lives.
Legal options are limited, emotionally draining, and financially expensive.
Few attorneys are familiar with the relevant laws. In most states, statutes are not responsive to the evolving needs of grandparents who wish to have more temporary or permanent rights. A national satellite video program originating from University of Wisconsin-Extension in Madison on Feb. 27 will examine some of the legal and policy issues that grandparents face and what their options may be. The program will look at ways of improving relationships with agencies and professionals who provide services to grandparents. Even though it's a common situation, grandparents say they frequently face challenges in obtaining information and services.