When a parent dies, especially if it is your child, it can become possible to lose contact with your grandchildren. It may become very difficult for your grandchild if they lose you in this process too. You should try to contact the remaining parent about regaining access or even explaining how you can help support them during this difficult time.
You become a key link to the child’s parent and can help them stay connected to their parents.
If the parent was a single parent and they left a will, this should outline who they nominated to be the guardian. It could be that the name you, the grandparent, as the legal guardian of the child. However, if a guardian is not outlined then the immediate family may make the arrangements. If a dispute about this arises, the court will be asked to resolve this issue and decide who will be the guardian for the child.
The court will always consider what is in the best interest of the child and when compared to foster care, it may just be that they place the child with the grandparents if they can care for them.
3.66