Grandparents do not receive automatic parenting rights simply because of the family relationship. Their legal route depends on the order sought, the governing statute, their caregiving role and the child's best interests.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Contact and interaction
Grandparents can seek structured time with a child in circumstances recognized by the applicable legislation.
- contact time
- interaction
- existing relationship with child
Decision-making responsibility
A grandparent seeking a parental decision-making role faces a different legal question from a request for contact.
- leave of the court
- caregiving role
- best interests
Leave requirements
Whether court permission is required depends on the statute and type of order sought.
- Parenting and Support Act
- Divorce Act
- contact versus decision-making
Grandparents caring for a child
A grandparent who is already providing primary care may need orders dealing with parenting authority and support.
- decision-making responsibility
- child support
- parental contact
Child protection
Grandparents and relatives can also become involved when child-protection services are working with a family.
- kinship placement
- agency involvement
- protective proceedings
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Family Law — Grandparents Overview
- Nova Scotia Family Law — Grandparents Court Applications