Do mothers have the same rights as fathers?

When two parents separate, it can sometimes be assumed that the children will automatically be allowed to live with their mother. However, if the father is named on the birth certificate of the child, and in some other circumstances too, both parents will have equal parental responsibility for their children. This means that they both have a right to have contact with their children, they can both make decisions about they children, and they both have responsibilities towards their children. 

 

If both parents cannot agree to how their contact with their children should proceed, one parent may decide that it’s time to get legal assistance (see Family Solicitors in Lancaster’s information, here). The Court will look at a variety of factors, including the needs of the children, which parent can better meet these needs, and whether there is more than one child to keep living together. 

 

Just because the mother is wanting to keep the children in her care, this will not necessarily follow that it is the best thing for the children. 

 

If you need advice about starting contact with your children, or whether you can apply for a change of residence for your children, contact our Family Solicitors in Lancaster on 01524 581 306 or via our website enquiry form, here. 

 

We offer a free initial consultation, by appointment, and fixed-fees and payment plans are available.