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Legal relationship to grandchild's half-sibling

(8 Posts)
ReadyMeals Fri 19-Jul-24 14:37:32

I have a grandchild whose mother my son never married - they are no longer together. The mother of my grandchild had an older child by a different father. I have always treated that older child the same as my actual grandchild. For legal purposes am I related to the grandchild's sibling if I offer to witness a document for them that cannot be witnessed by someone related?

Nannarose Fri 19-Jul-24 14:47:25

Maybe GSM will be along, but I have dealt with this situation, so will give you an idea (with the caveat that peoper legal advice may be necessary)
Legally, you are a family friend. Occasionally, in Social Services / Family Court situations, your relationship may be regarded as 'close'.
If your situation doesn't include these, then I believe you are clear - but depending on the exact nature of the document, you may wish to take legal advice.
If you have legal advice included in an insurance policy, or trade union membership, you can get advice easily & quickly.
I would add that this child is lucky to have an 'unofficial' gran to take an interest in them.

welbeck Fri 19-Jul-24 14:50:21

this has come up on MN, and there did not seem to be a consensus.
it is quite an arcane area, and the answer may vary depending on the exact document to be signed.
best to take advice from the relevant officials.

Germanshepherdsmum Fri 19-Jul-24 15:09:16

You are not related to the older child, but if someone chose to be awkward they could argue that she/he has been treated by you as a child of the family and that you are not a truly independent witness. It’s better therefore if they find a witness who isn’t quite so close, though not legally essential.

M0nica Fri 19-Jul-24 15:32:12

Trust GSM to come up with the goods!

Germanshepherdsmum Fri 19-Jul-24 16:07:30

Thanks MOnica! I do my best. 😊

ReadyMeals Sat 20-Jul-24 11:37:44

Thanks everyone, good advice!

MissAdventure Sat 20-Jul-24 12:57:10

smile
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