Parental responsibility
Parental responsibility is a legal term that means having all legal rights, duties, powers and responsibilities for a child (a child being a young person under the age of 16 years). Parental responsibility for a child means that the person is responsible for and has the right to be consulted about the child's health, education and welfare.
A father automatically acquires parental responsibility if:
- he is married to the mother at the time of the child's birth or if he subsequently marries the mother.
- Since 1 December 2003 an unmarried father acquires parental responsibility if he is named or becomes named on the birth certificate and registers the birth with her.
- If the mother voluntarily agrees to the father having parental responsibility and such agreement is filed with the Principle Registry;
- If the mother does not agree the father can apply to the Court for parental responsibility.
If you are having difficulty acquiring parental responsibility or wish to know more about what rights please complete a contact form or call us directly on 01483 302 000 or email samantha.jago@www.rhw.co.uk
