I am in the UK. I am no where near an expert in these things but I have a young grandson living with me. My son is his father. My case very different from yours but I would suggest that your son talks to a solicitor. In an ideal world your son and his ex would agree on visitation rights. But it's not an ideal world and he would benefit from having everything done and agreed upon through the courts.

The starting line for your son should be that he has a job, he is paying maintenance and he has a safe and fit environment to bring his child to for visits and perhaps stay-overs when the child is older.

Personally, I would like to suggest that your son put on the kid gloves. The baby is only two weeks old, the mother is going to be very protective at this stage. He may have to be prepared to give her some time. It is very difficult for a new mum to let her baby out of her sight. Hopefully if he can be thoughtful and caring and understanding now, agreements may be reached in the not too distant future. Having said that, I don't mean for him to take a step back - he has to be seen to want what he says he wants - more time with his child.

And just as an after thought, you are also entitled to see your grandchild. It might mean going to court but you do have rights too.

Again, my personal advice would be for you all to try to be friends for the baby's sake - “It takes a whole village to bring up a child successfully.” Try to convince her that everyone has a part to play in the life of her child.


Single Parents Information, Solo Parenting, Dads Only, Grandparents

Parents Protest Group defending Fathers Contact Rights to Children

The GrandParents Association

Childrens Rights, Fathers Rights, Mothers Rights, Grandparents rights

1badchoice,

I agree. A few short visits on a weekly basis at this point perhaps with the intention also of building a decent friendly relationship with the mum. It's a lot of hard work looking after a baby. If he plays his cards right she may even be glad of the break even if it is only for an hour or two. I would advise taking it slow, and stand your ground - but with understanding and compassion, not accusations and recriminations.

tawnynkids,

Very good point about breastfeeding.

mrs goggings,

You could help him understand the worries and the struggles of taking care of a baby. Even live at home dad's have to hang around and wait their turn for a cuddle. At this point in time he just has to be there every chance he gets and support his child's mum as much as he can.