Father’s Rights

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There is a common misconception that fathers have less rights than mothers.  Although this is not entirely true, not all fathers automatically have ‘legal’ rights when it comes to their children.

Under the Law of England and Wales, legal rights in relation to a child is referred to as ‘parental responsibility’.  Whether you have parental responsibility or not will depend on your circumstances.  Parental responsibility typically ends when a child reaches the age of 18 years.  We can provide you with further advice and assistance on your specific circumstances and advise if you have parental responsibility.  If you do not have parental responsibility this can be obtained, and we can guide you through the process.

If there are no serious safeguarding concerns, the Court considers that a child has the right to spend quality time with each parent and have a meaningful relationship with both parents.  You therefore have the same right to spend time with your child as the mother.

If there is a dispute regarding who a child should live with or how much time they should spend with each parent, and you are unable to reach an agreement outside of the Court process, then an application to the Court can be made for a Child Arrangements Order.

We can assist you with all aspects relating to private law child arrangements and guide you through any negotiations and the Court process, should an application be required.

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