One in ten grandparents have been the primary support of a grandchild at sometime in their lives. Currently six percent of children live in a grandparent headed household. Whatever the reason and situation, these grandparents face a range of difficulties, including legal and policy challenges. Many organizations and services for both generations are not prepared to deal with the special needs and situations these families presented.
Legal options are limited and 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. This is a second program on issues involving grandparents raising grandchildren. The first was broadcast in January 1999 and was intended for use by professionals. Explore the implications of various forms of informal and formal custody arrangements, such as guardianship, court-ordered placements, and foster care and adoption for grandparents raising grandchildren.