When family relationships break down, grandparents can sometimes find themselves cut off from their grandchildren. In the UK, the law doesn’t automatically grant grandparents legal rights – but there are ways to apply for contact. This often involves a formal legal process, which can come with significant emotional and financial costs.
In this article, we explain how grandparents can apply for legal access, what the process involves and how much it typically costs in 2025.
Do grandparents have legal rights?
Grandparents do not have automatic rights to contact with their grandchildren under UK law. To apply for contact, they must first ask the court for permission (known as ‘leave’) and then apply for a Child Arrangements Order.
Courts generally support contact between children and grandparents, unless there’s a compelling reason not to. Still, this two-step process means legal advice is often necessary, especially in contested cases.
Mediation: the first step
Before making a court application, grandparents must usually attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This meeting explores whether the issue can be resolved through mediation, which is usually quicker and more cost-effective than court.
Costs typically include:
- Around £100 for a MIAM
- Up to £150 per hour for further mediation sessions
Some grandparents may be eligible for the government’s Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, which contributes up to £500 towards mediation costs.
What does the court process cost?
If mediation fails or is unsuitable, court may be the only option. The application fee for a Child Arrangements Order is £263 as of 2025. While applying for permission (leave) is part of the process, it does not carry a separate fee.
Legal costs vary, but many solicitors charge between £200 and £300 per hour. Depending on how complex the case is, total legal fees can range from £2,000 to £6,000 or more. If the case goes to multiple hearings, costs can increase significantly.
What does the court consider?
When deciding whether to grant contact, the court’s priority is always the welfare of the child. Judges will look at the nature of the relationship between the grandparent and the child, the reason for the application and any objections raised by the parents. If the court is satisfied that contact is in the child’s best interests, it may grant a Child Arrangements Order specifying when and how the grandparent can see the child.
This can include regular visits, phone or video calls or even overnight stays depending on the circumstances. However, if the child’s welfare could be negatively affected, the court may refuse contact entirely.
Legal aid and financial support
In most cases, grandparents are not eligible for legal aid when applying for contact, unless they have been victims of domestic abuse or can demonstrate serious risk to the child’s safety. This means many grandparents must cover the full cost of legal advice, representation and court fees themselves.
However, some family law firms offer fixed-fee packages or payment plans to make the process more affordable. It’s worth discussing options during an initial consultation.
How long does it take?
The process for applying for grandparents’ rights can take several months, especially if the case is contested. After attending mediation, you must apply for permission and then for a Child Arrangements Order. Each stage may require a court hearing and multiple hearings are not uncommon.
Simple cases may be resolved in 3–6 months, while more complex ones can take a year or longer. Delays can arise if the court orders a CAFCASS report, social services involvement or psychological assessments.
How can a solicitor help?
Navigating the legal system without guidance can be difficult, particularly when emotions run high. A family solicitor can:
- Advise on the likelihood of success
- Help prepare strong evidence
- Represent you at mediation or in court
- Ensure all legal documents are correctly submitted
At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, we understand how important grandparent relationships can be. We aim to make the process less stressful and more affordable by offering clear, expert guidance from start to finish.
Speak to our family law team today
If you’re considering applying for grandparents’ rights, don’t go through it alone. Our experienced family solicitors in the UK can help you understand your options, prepare your application and represent your interests every step of the way.
We offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your situation. Call 0203 983 5080, email [email protected] or complete the form below to get started. Or visit our offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus or Manchester.
