Grandparents' visitation rights and custody

In every state, grandparents have the legal right to go to court to seek visitation with their grandchildren. Visitation laws have evolved toward more expansive rights for grandparents that reduce the parents' relative legal authority. Psychological research suggests that court-ordered visitation imposed in high-conflict situations over parental opposition may be detrimental to children. Grandparents who take on parenting roles for their grandchildren may become involved in legal custody disputes. The custodial relationships that can be created between grandparents and grandchildren include formal custody, foster care, guardianship, and adoption.