When grandparents assume legal custody of a grandchild, the financial responsibility for the child’s well-being often becomes a complex legal matter. Typically, the biological parents retain a legal obligation to provide financial support for their child, even if they do not have physical custody. A court order will generally stipulate the amount of support each parent must contribute. For instance, if a mother and father are ordered to pay support, and the father fails to meet his obligation, the mother may still be responsible for her portion, but can pursue legal action against the father for the unpaid support. This financial support, commonly referred to as child support, aims to cover the child’s essential needs such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and education. Grandparents raising grandchildren may petition the court for a formal child support order against both parents to help defray the costs associated with raising the child.
Ensuring adequate financial resources for a child’s upbringing, regardless of who holds custody, serves several vital purposes. It helps provide stability and consistency in the child’s life, allowing them to access necessary resources. Furthermore, it alleviates some of the financial burden placed upon custodial grandparents who may not have anticipated raising a child in their later years. Historically, laws regarding custodial grandparent rights and child support have evolved. Increased awareness of the challenges faced by custodial grandparents has led to legal mechanisms designed to protect both the grandparents and the grandchildren involved.
Several factors influence how these legal mechanisms are applied. The specific laws of the jurisdiction where the custody arrangement is determined play a significant role, and these vary from state to state. The determination of which parent pays, and how much, depends on factors such as each parent’s income, assets, and the child’s needs. Furthermore, the nature of the custody arrangementwhether it’s temporary or permanentcan also impact child support obligations. Navigating these legal complexities often necessitates the assistance of legal professionals who can provide guidance on establishing and enforcing child support orders.
1. Parental Income
Parental income plays a crucial role in determining child support obligations when grandparents have custody. The financial capacity of both parents is a primary factor considered by courts when establishing support orders. Understanding how parental income is assessed and its implications is essential in these situations.
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Income Assessment
Courts typically consider all forms of parental income, including wages, salaries, bonuses, investment income, and self-employment earnings. Documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, and profit and loss statements may be required to verify income. In cases of fluctuating income, courts may use an average income over a specific period. Accurate income assessment is critical for fair and appropriate support calculations.
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Proportionate Responsibility
Child support calculations often involve determining each parent’s proportionate share of the child’s financial needs based on their respective incomes. For example, if one parent earns significantly more than the other, they may be ordered to pay a larger percentage of the child’s support. This ensures that the financial burden is distributed equitably based on each parent’s ability to contribute.
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Impact of Unemployment or Underemployment
Unemployment or underemployment of a parent does not necessarily eliminate their child support obligation. Courts may impute income based on a parent’s earning potential or past work history, especially if they believe a parent is intentionally avoiding employment to reduce support payments. Demonstrating a genuine effort to find suitable employment is crucial in these circumstances.
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Modification of Orders
Substantial changes in parental income, such as job loss or a significant salary increase, can warrant a modification of existing child support orders. Grandparents or parents can petition the court to adjust the support amount to reflect the changed financial circumstances. Providing documentation of the income change is necessary to support the modification request.
The assessment and consideration of parental income are fundamental in ensuring that children receive adequate financial support when residing with grandparents. This process aims to establish a fair and sustainable support system that reflects the financial capabilities of both parents, ultimately benefiting the child’s well-being.
2. Custody Type (Temporary/Permanent)
The nature of the custody arrangement, whether temporary or permanent, significantly influences child support obligations when grandparents assume custodial roles. Distinguishing between these arrangements is critical for understanding how financial responsibility is determined and enforced.
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Temporary Custody
Temporary custody arrangements often arise from unforeseen circumstances such as parental illness, incarceration, or rehabilitation programs. In these cases, the expectation is that the child will eventually return to parental care. While grandparents assume temporary care, biological parents typically retain their financial obligations. Child support orders may be adjusted temporarily to reflect the grandparents’ added expenses, but the underlying responsibility usually remains with the parents. For example, a parent entering a short-term rehabilitation program may have their child support payments temporarily reduced, acknowledging the decreased cost of directly caring for the child while also ensuring some contribution to the grandparents’ expenses. The duration and specifics of temporary custody orders are defined by the court based on the circumstances leading to the arrangement.
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Permanent Custody
Permanent custody signifies a more enduring shift in parental responsibility. This typically occurs when parents are deemed unfit or incapable of providing adequate care for their children due to factors such as neglect, abuse, or long-term incapacitation. When grandparents gain permanent custody, child support orders are generally more formalized and long-term. Courts often order ongoing child support from the biological parents to contribute to the child’s upbringing by the grandparents. This ongoing support acknowledges the permanent nature of the arrangement and the grandparents’ long-term financial commitment.
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Transitioning Between Temporary and Permanent Custody
Custody arrangements can transition from temporary to permanent depending on evolving circumstances. If a parent’s situation improves, temporary custody might revert back to parental care. Conversely, if a parent’s ability to provide care deteriorates during a period of temporary custody, the arrangement may transition to permanent custody. These transitions often necessitate adjustments to child support orders to align with the changed circumstances and ensure continued financial stability for the child.
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Impact on Support Calculation and Enforcement
The type of custody arrangement directly impacts the calculation and enforcement of child support. Temporary orders may involve adjustments to existing orders or temporary new orders, whereas permanent custody necessitates establishing more permanent support structures. Enforcement mechanisms, such as wage garnishment or interception of tax refunds, may be employed to ensure compliance with child support obligations, regardless of custody type. The court monitors and enforces these orders to ensure the child’s financial needs are consistently met.
The distinction between temporary and permanent custody is pivotal in determining the nature and duration of child support obligations when grandparents are caregivers. The legal framework surrounding these arrangements prioritizes the child’s well-being by ensuring consistent financial support regardless of who provides the day-to-day care. Understanding the nuances of each custody type and its associated implications is essential for both grandparents and parents involved in such situations.
3. Court-ordered Support
Court-ordered support forms the cornerstone of financial stability for children raised by grandparents. When grandparents assume custody, a court order legally mandates which partiestypically the biological parentsare responsible for financially supporting the child. This order establishes a structured framework, ensuring consistent financial contribution toward the child’s upbringing, regardless of the parents’ physical absence. The court assesses each parent’s financial capacity and the child’s needs to determine a fair and appropriate support amount. For instance, a court may order both parents to contribute specific amounts monthly, proportional to their income. This court-ordered support creates a legally binding obligation, providing grandparents with the financial resources necessary to meet the child’s needs.
The importance of court-ordered support extends beyond mere financial provision; it offers legal recourse and stability. Without a court order, grandparents rely on voluntary contributions from parents, which can be unreliable and inconsistent. A court order provides legal recourse for enforcement. Should a parent fail to meet their obligations, grandparents can pursue legal action to compel payment. This enforceability provides stability and predictability, allowing grandparents to budget effectively and ensure the child’s needs are consistently met. Moreover, court-ordered support clarifies financial responsibility. It removes ambiguity and potential disputes between parents and grandparents regarding financial contributions, fostering a clearer and more stable environment for the child. For example, if one parent consistently fails to provide support, the court order serves as evidence, allowing the custodial grandparents and the other parent to take legal action to ensure the child receives adequate support.
In conclusion, court-ordered support is an indispensable component when grandparents assume custody. It provides a legally sound framework for ensuring the child’s financial well-being, offering stability, enforceability, and clarity of responsibility. By establishing a clear legal obligation, court-ordered support facilitates a more secure and predictable environment for the child while providing grandparents with the necessary resources to fulfill their custodial role. The complexities inherent in these situations underscore the crucial role of legal intervention in establishing and enforcing child support, ensuring the child’s needs are met consistently and equitably.
4. Grandparent Petitions
Grandparent petitions represent a critical legal avenue for establishing financial support for grandchildren in their care. When grandparents assume custody, they can petition the court for a child support order against the biological parents. This petition initiates a legal process crucial for securing the child’s financial well-being. The petition outlines the grandparents’ custody arrangement, the child’s needs, and the parents’ financial capacity. It serves as a formal request for the court to intervene and establish a legally binding child support obligation. This legal pathway is essential because, without a court order, financial support from parents remains voluntary and unreliable. A successful grandparent petition transforms parental financial responsibility from a discretionary act into a legal obligation, providing consistency and stability for the child’s upbringing.
The causal relationship between grandparent petitions and child support establishment is direct. The petition serves as the catalyst, prompting the court to review the circumstances and determine appropriate support obligations. Consider a scenario where grandparents obtain custody of their grandchildren due to parental neglect. The grandparents, facing the financial burdens of raising the children, may petition the court for child support. The court, upon reviewing the case and assessing the parents’ financial capacity, issues a child support order. This order mandates regular payments from the parents to the grandparents, ensuring the children’s financial needs are met. Without the grandparent petition, the financial burden would likely fall solely on the grandparents, potentially jeopardizing the children’s stability. The petition, therefore, functions as a crucial tool for securing the necessary resources.
Understanding the significance of grandparent petitions is paramount for ensuring the well-being of children raised by grandparents. These petitions provide a structured legal process for establishing financial support, transforming uncertainty into stability. They empower grandparents to secure the resources necessary to meet the child’s needs, ultimately contributing to a more secure and stable upbringing. The complexities surrounding grandparent custody and child support underscore the critical role of legal mechanisms like these petitions in safeguarding the welfare of children in these situations.
5. Jurisdictional Laws
Jurisdictional laws play a pivotal role in determining child support obligations when grandparents have custody. The legal landscape governing child support varies significantly from state to state, creating a complex interplay between the state where the child resides, the state where the custody order was issued, and potentially the state where the parents reside. This jurisdictional variation directly impacts which court has the authority to establish, modify, and enforce child support orders, ultimately influencing who pays and how much. For example, a custody order issued in one state might not be readily enforceable in another without proper legal procedures. This jurisdictional complexity can create challenges for grandparents seeking consistent child support payments across state lines.
Understanding the cause-and-effect relationship between jurisdictional laws and child support enforcement is crucial. The state’s laws dictate the specific criteria used to calculate child support, the available enforcement mechanisms, and the procedures for modifying orders based on changing circumstances. For instance, some states prioritize the payer’s ability to pay, while others emphasize the child’s needs. This variation can lead to significantly different support outcomes even in similar family situations. Moreover, interstate enforcement of child support orders often requires navigating the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), which facilitates cooperation between states to establish and enforce orders across jurisdictional boundaries. Navigating UIFSA, however, can be a complex process requiring legal expertise.
The practical significance of understanding jurisdictional laws cannot be overstated. Grandparents seeking to secure child support must be aware of the specific laws governing their situation. Failure to navigate these legal intricacies can hinder their ability to obtain and enforce child support orders, potentially jeopardizing the financial stability of the grandchildren in their care. Seeking legal counsel specialized in interstate child support and custody matters is crucial. Legal professionals can provide guidance on the specific requirements and procedures of the relevant jurisdictions, helping grandparents navigate the complexities and secure consistent child support. This understanding empowers grandparents to effectively advocate for their grandchildren’s financial well-being within the legal framework governing their specific circumstances.
6. Child’s Needs
A child’s needs form the core of child support calculations when grandparents have custody. These needs encompass a broad range of expenses essential for the child’s well-being, including basic necessities like food, clothing, shelter, and medical care, as well as educational expenses, extracurricular activities, and childcare costs. The assessment of these needs directly influences the amount of financial support deemed necessary and consequently, the financial burden placed on the responsible parties, typically the biological parents. A comprehensive understanding of the child’s specific needs is crucial for determining a fair and adequate support order. For instance, a child with special medical needs will require a higher level of financial support compared to a child without such needs, impacting the financial obligations of the parents accordingly.
A direct causal link exists between the extent of a child’s needs and the financial obligations imposed on parents. Greater needs translate to higher support orders, distributing the financial burden proportionally among the parents based on their respective incomes and circumstances. Consider a scenario where a child requires specialized therapy due to a developmental condition. This added expense increases the overall cost of raising the child, directly impacting the amount of child support deemed necessary by the court. The court, recognizing the increased financial burden, would likely order a higher support amount from the parents to ensure the child receives the required therapy. This causal relationship underscores the importance of accurately assessing the child’s needs to ensure adequate financial provision.
The practical implications of understanding this connection are significant. Accurate and comprehensive documentation of the child’s needs is crucial for securing an appropriate level of financial support. Grandparents seeking child support must meticulously document all expenses related to the child’s care, including medical bills, educational costs, and other essential expenditures. This documentation provides concrete evidence to support the requested level of support, strengthening the case for a fair and adequate child support order. Without such documentation, the court may underestimate the child’s true needs, potentially resulting in a support order insufficient to cover the actual costs of raising the child, thereby compromising the child’s well-being.
7. Parental Assets
Parental assets play a significant role in determining child support obligations when grandparents have custody. While income is a primary factor, courts also consider the assets held by each parent to assess their overall financial capacity and ensure adequate support for the child. Assets, including real estate, investments, savings accounts, and other valuable possessions, provide a more comprehensive picture of a parent’s financial resources, impacting the calculation of child support payments. Understanding how parental assets are considered is crucial for establishing a fair and sustainable support system when grandparents assume custodial responsibility.
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Asset Identification and Valuation
Courts typically require parents to disclose all assets, including real estate holdings, investment portfolios, retirement accounts, and business ownership. Accurate valuation of these assets is crucial for determining their contribution to child support calculations. Appraisals, market analyses, and professional valuations may be necessary to establish a fair market value for significant assets. This thorough assessment ensures a complete understanding of each parent’s financial standing, contributing to a more equitable child support determination.
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Liquid vs. Non-Liquid Assets
Courts differentiate between liquid and non-liquid assets. Liquid assets, such as cash, savings accounts, and easily marketable securities, can be readily converted to cash and are therefore given greater weight in child support calculations. Non-liquid assets, such as real estate or retirement accounts, may require more complex procedures for liquidation and are considered differently. While non-liquid assets contribute to the overall picture of a parent’s financial capacity, their immediate impact on support calculations may be less direct. For example, a parent with significant real estate holdings might not be required to sell the property but could be ordered to pay a higher support amount based on its assessed value.
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Impact on Support Calculation
Parental assets influence child support calculations in several ways. Significant assets can increase the overall support amount, ensuring the child benefits from the parents’ full financial capacity. Assets may also influence the structure of support payments. For instance, a parent with substantial assets might be ordered to make a lump-sum payment or establish a trust fund to contribute to the child’s future needs, in addition to regular monthly support payments. The precise impact of assets varies depending on jurisdictional laws and specific case circumstances.
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Asset Protection and Dissipation
Courts scrutinize parental actions related to assets, especially in cases involving potential asset hiding or dissipation. Attempts to transfer or conceal assets to avoid child support obligations are viewed unfavorably. Courts have mechanisms to address such actions, including imputing income or holding parents accountable for dissipated assets. Demonstrating responsible financial management and transparency regarding assets is crucial for ensuring a fair and equitable child support determination. For example, a parent suddenly transferring ownership of a valuable property to a family member shortly before a custody hearing could raise concerns about asset shielding and be subject to legal scrutiny.
In conclusion, parental assets represent a significant component of child support considerations when grandparents assume custody. A thorough understanding of how assets are identified, valued, and factored into support calculations is essential for ensuring that the child’s financial needs are met adequately. The complexities surrounding asset assessment underscore the importance of legal guidance in navigating these situations, ultimately protecting the child’s well-being and promoting a fair and sustainable support system.
8. Enforcement of Orders
Enforcement of child support orders is crucial when grandparents have custody, ensuring financial stability for the child. While court orders establish the legal obligation of parents to provide financial support, enforcement mechanisms ensure compliance with these orders. Without robust enforcement procedures, court orders become symbolic rather than substantive, failing to provide the intended financial resources. A causal link exists between effective enforcement and consistent financial support for children raised by grandparents. Stronger enforcement measures directly correlate with increased compliance from non-custodial parents, translating into more reliable and consistent child support payments. This reliability allows grandparents to meet the child’s needs, promoting stability and well-being. For example, if a parent consistently fails to meet their court-ordered obligations, enforcement mechanisms such as wage garnishment can ensure direct deduction of support payments from the parent’s earnings, providing a consistent stream of financial support for the child.
The importance of enforcement as a component of child support in grandparent custody cases cannot be overstated. It bridges the gap between a legal obligation and actual financial provision. Without effective enforcement, the burden of pursuing non-paying parents falls heavily on the grandparents, often adding emotional stress and financial strain to an already challenging situation. Consider a scenario where a grandparent caring for a grandchild receives sporadic or no child support payments from the non-custodial parent. The grandparent may have to pursue legal action repeatedly, incurring additional costs and emotional distress. Effective enforcement mechanisms alleviate this burden by automating the payment process and providing recourse for non-compliance, fostering a more stable and predictable financial environment for both the grandparent and the child. This predictability enables better financial planning and ensures consistent provision for the child’s needs.
Understanding the practical significance of enforcement mechanisms is paramount for grandparents navigating the complexities of child support. Awareness of available tools, such as wage garnishment, tax refund intercepts, and license suspension for non-payment, empowers grandparents to actively pursue consistent support. Furthermore, legal counsel specialized in child support enforcement can guide grandparents through the legal processes, ensuring the most effective strategies are employed. Enforcement mechanisms become the linchpin for transforming a court order into tangible financial support, ensuring the child’s needs are met consistently and reducing the burden on custodial grandparents. The complexities surrounding child support enforcement in grandparent custody cases underscore the critical need for accessible legal resources and robust enforcement procedures to safeguard the well-being of children in these situations.
9. Legal Representation
Legal representation plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of child support when grandparents have custody. Securing competent legal counsel establishes a clear pathway for grandparents to understand their rights and responsibilities, pursue appropriate legal action, and ensure the financial well-being of the grandchildren in their care. The presence of legal representation significantly impacts the outcome of child support proceedings. Attorneys specializing in family law possess the expertise to navigate the intricacies of jurisdictional laws, custody arrangements, and child support calculations, advocating effectively for the grandparents’ interests. This legal expertise translates into a higher likelihood of securing a fair and adequate child support order, directly impacting the financial stability of the child. For example, an attorney can effectively present evidence of the child’s needs and the parents’ financial capacity, increasing the likelihood of a favorable support order.
Legal representation functions as a critical component in these cases due to several factors. First, it provides clarity and guidance in navigating the often-confusing legal landscape. Attorneys can explain the relevant laws, procedures, and available options, empowering grandparents to make informed decisions. Second, legal representation ensures that grandparents’ rights are protected throughout the process. Attorneys advocate for their clients’ interests, negotiating with opposing counsel and presenting a compelling case to the court. Third, legal representation facilitates efficient and effective communication between parties involved. Attorneys can manage communication, negotiate settlements, and minimize conflict, streamlining the process and reducing emotional strain on the family. For instance, an attorney can effectively communicate with the parents’ legal representatives, potentially reaching a mutually agreeable support arrangement without protracted court battles.
Understanding the practical significance of legal representation is paramount for grandparents seeking child support. Navigating these legal proceedings without professional guidance can be daunting and detrimental. Lack of legal representation may lead to unfavorable outcomes, such as insufficient support orders or difficulty enforcing existing orders. By securing legal counsel, grandparents invest in protecting their grandchildren’s financial future, ensuring access to resources necessary for their well-being. Moreover, access to legal aid organizations and pro bono services can assist grandparents with limited financial resources in obtaining legal representation, emphasizing the importance of seeking legal assistance regardless of financial constraints. Legal representation becomes a cornerstone in achieving equitable child support outcomes, promoting a more stable and secure environment for children raised by grandparents. The complexities inherent in these situations underscore the critical need for accessible legal resources and robust legal representation to safeguard the welfare of children in grandparent custody cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common questions and concerns regarding child support obligations when grandparents assume custody of a child. Understanding these legal and financial aspects is crucial for both grandparents and parents navigating these complex situations.
Question 1: Are parents still obligated to pay child support if grandparents have legal custody?
Yes, biological parents typically retain a legal obligation to financially support their child even if grandparents have legal custody. Custody and financial responsibility are distinct legal matters.
Question 2: How is the child support amount determined when grandparents have custody?
Child support calculations consider factors like each parent’s income, assets, the child’s needs, and the applicable state guidelines. Jurisdictional laws play a significant role in the calculation process.
Question 3: What if one parent cannot be located or is unable to contribute financially?
If one parent is absent or financially incapable, the court may order the other parent to bear the full financial responsibility or adjust the support amount accordingly. Grandparents may also explore other legal avenues for financial assistance.
Question 4: Can child support orders be modified if circumstances change?
Yes, child support orders can be modified if there are substantial changes in a parent’s income, the child’s needs, or other relevant circumstances. Modifications require a formal petition to the court and supporting documentation.
Question 5: What can grandparents do if a parent refuses to pay court-ordered child support?
Grandparents can pursue legal enforcement mechanisms, such as wage garnishment, tax refund intercepts, or license suspension, to compel payment of overdue support. Legal counsel is highly recommended in these situations.
Question 6: Does it matter if the custody arrangement is temporary or permanent?
Yes, the type of custody arrangement, whether temporary or permanent, can influence the nature and duration of child support obligations. Temporary arrangements may involve temporary adjustments to existing orders, whereas permanent custody typically necessitates long-term support orders.
Securing legal counsel specializing in family law and child support matters is crucial for navigating these complexities and protecting the financial well-being of children in grandparent custody arrangements.
For further information and guidance specific to individual circumstances, consulting with a qualified legal professional is strongly advised.
Tips for Navigating Child Support in Grandparent Custody Cases
Securing adequate and consistent financial support for grandchildren under grandparent custody often requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of legal processes. These tips offer practical guidance for navigating the complexities of child support in such situations.
Tip 1: Seek Legal Counsel Early
Consulting with an attorney specializing in family law and child support is crucial from the outset. Legal counsel provides expert guidance on navigating jurisdictional laws, custody arrangements, and child support calculations. Early legal intervention can streamline the process and improve the likelihood of favorable outcomes.
Tip 2: Document Everything Meticulously
Maintaining detailed records of all expenses related to the childs care, including medical bills, educational costs, and other essential expenditures, strengthens the case for adequate support. Comprehensive documentation provides concrete evidence of the childs needs, influencing child support calculations.
Tip 3: Understand Jurisdictional Laws
Child support laws vary significantly between states. Awareness of the specific laws governing the custody arrangement and child support order is crucial for effective navigation of legal procedures and enforcement mechanisms.
Tip 4: Explore All Available Resources
Several resources can assist grandparents seeking child support. Legal aid organizations, pro bono services, and state child support enforcement agencies offer valuable support and guidance, regardless of financial constraints.
Tip 5: Establish Clear Communication
While legal representation manages formal communication, maintaining respectful and clear communication with the childs parents, when possible, can facilitate cooperation and streamline the process. Open communication, when feasible, can contribute to a more amicable resolution.
Tip 6: Prepare for Potential Challenges
Navigating child support can be complex and time-consuming. Preparing for potential challenges, such as non-compliance from parents or interstate jurisdictional issues, allows for proactive planning and more effective responses to obstacles.
Tip 7: Focus on the Child’s Best Interests
Prioritizing the childs well-being throughout the process helps maintain focus and navigate challenging decisions. Focusing on the childs needs fosters a more constructive approach to securing adequate financial support.
By implementing these tips, grandparents can navigate the complexities of child support, advocating effectively for the financial stability and well-being of the grandchildren in their care. These proactive measures contribute to a more secure and stable upbringing for the child while alleviating some of the financial burdens on custodial grandparents.
This information provides general guidance and should not substitute advice from a qualified legal professional. Consulting with an attorney specializing in family law and child support matters is crucial for addressing individual circumstances and ensuring appropriate legal action. The complexities of child support necessitate personalized legal guidance tailored to each unique situation.
Understanding Financial Responsibility in Grandparent Custody
Determining financial responsibility for a child’s well-being when grandparents assume custody requires careful consideration of various factors. Legal obligations typically remain with the biological parents, regardless of the custody arrangement. Court-ordered support provides a structured framework for ensuring consistent financial contributions, calculated based on parental income, assets, and the child’s specific needs. Navigating jurisdictional laws and enforcement mechanisms is crucial for securing reliable payments. Temporary versus permanent custody arrangements further influence the nature and duration of support obligations. Grandparent petitions serve as essential legal tools for initiating child support proceedings and securing necessary resources. Finally, legal representation provides invaluable guidance and advocacy throughout this complex process.
Ensuring the financial stability of children raised by grandparents necessitates a comprehensive understanding of legal rights and responsibilities. Advocating for children’s well-being in these situations requires diligent navigation of the legal landscape, emphasizing the critical role of court-ordered support, effective enforcement mechanisms, and competent legal counsel. The financial and emotional security of these children relies heavily on a robust legal framework that prioritizes their needs and holds responsible parties accountable. Seeking appropriate legal guidance remains paramount for navigating these complex situations and ensuring the continued well-being of children in grandparent custody.
