In a family law case from March this year [Danes & Anor (2013)] the maternal grandmother applied for an order that the child live with her and that she share responsibility with the child’s parents.
The grandmother sought to the ability to become involved in the children’s day-to-day lives, however the court decided that due to the grandmothers “lack of insight” this would be detrimental to the interests of the children.
“The applicant maternal grandmother lacks insight into her own personality and behavioural issues as they impact on the relationships in her life… The court is satisfied that the applicant has no ability to empathise with the needs of the mother and the children.”
The court is required to make such orders as are in the best interests of the children. The course of action taken was supported by the Independent Children’s Lawyer