Can grandparents get custody of a child if both parents pass away?

Where both parents have passed away, someone needs to be appointed as the child's legal guardian, and grandparents are generally considered strong candidates given their existing relationship with the child, though the court's decision is ultimately guided by what serves the child's best interests, not automatic entitlement.

The grandparents (or whoever wishes to take on this role) would typically need to file a guardianship application before the relevant court, which examines factors like their ability to provide a stable, caring environment, their age and health, and, where the child is old enough, the child's own preference.

If there's a dispute among family members over who should be appointed guardian, the court will weigh the competing claims based on the same best-interest standard. It would be advisable for the family to consult a lawyer promptly to begin this process, since having clear legal guardianship in place also matters for practical matters like schooling, medical decisions, and managing any inheritance the child may be entitled to.