Legal relationships recognized in a court of law are adoption, guardianship, certification as a foster parent, and powers of attorney. Custody agreements vary depending on how much a grandparent wants to be involved in a child's care. It is important for grandparents to understand the legal and financial implications of these relationships:
- Adoption means all rights and obligations of the child's parents are terminated. This is often a difficult decision because grandparents must acknowledge their son or daughter is an unfit parent.
- Guardianship may be either permanent or temporary.
- Certification as a foster parent qualifies the grandparent for financial benefits on a level with other foster parents.
- Powers of attorney allow grandparents to make decisions regarding the grandchildren, but they do not transfer legal custody.
Information is from the Senior Series, The Ohio Department of Aging, and The Ohio State University Extension.