A Grandparent’s Guide to Dependency Petitions for Custody in Alabama

When a parent can't provide a safe, stable home—due to addiction, neglect, abuse, incarceration, or mental health issues—grandparents often have no choice but to step in. If you're considering filing a Dependency Petition for custody of your grandchildren in Alabama, this guide walks you through the process.

Learn when filing is appropriate, how to prepare evidence, what the court looks for in dependency cases, and how to advocate for your grandchildren's safety and future. You'll also understand how DHR fits into the picture, how to respond to urgent situations, and why time is of the essence.

This guide was written by a family law attorney and is packed with real-world advice and legal strategy. If you're stepping up to protect your grandkids, this resource will help you take the right steps—and encourage you to work with an attorney who can fight for your family in court.

This checklist/guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, psychological, or professional advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship or any other professional-client relationship. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, tax professional, psychologist, or other expert regarding your specific situation.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of this information to any individual circumstances. The user assumes all responsibility for how they use this material. If you require legal, financial, or other professional advice, consult a licensed expert in your jurisdiction.