Methods of Obtaining Parental Responsibility for Fathers in the UK
In the United Kingdom, obtaining parental responsibility (PR) refers to the legal rights and duties that a parent has in relation to their child. There are several ways for obtaining PR for a child as a father in the UK.
Obtaining Parental Responsibility Through Marriage
If the father is married to the mother of the child at the time of the child’s birth, he will automatically have parental responsibility.
Birth Certificate
If the father’s name is on the child’s birth certificate and the child was born on or after 1 December 2003, he will have obtained parental responsibility.
Agreement with the Mother
The father and mother can enter into an agreement, called a parental responsibility agreement, which gives the father parental responsibility. Both parents have to register their agreement with the court.
If you’re unsure how to approach this or you’re facing resistance, our guide to improving co-parenting relationships may help ease communication and avoid unnecessary legal stress.
Mediation
In the context of obtaining parental responsibility, mediation can play a pivotal role in facilitating constructive dialogue between parents. When disputes arise over parental rights and duties, mediation offers a platform for parents to negotiate agreements outside of court.
Court Order
If the father does not have parental responsibility, he can apply to the court for an order granting him parental responsibility. The father can apply to court to obtain parental responsibility. Ideally, they will also apply for a child arrangements order at the same time, which sets out the arrangements for the child’s upbringing, including who the child will live with and spend time with.
We’ve outlined how to apply for a Child Arrangements Order in our dedicated step-by-step guide — it often runs alongside a PR application.
Parental Responsibility and Child Contact
It is important to note that parental responsibility does not necessarily give a parent the right to spend time with their child or make decisions about their upbringing. These issues are separate from parental responsibility and are dealt with through child arrangements orders.
If you’re struggling to agree contact arrangements, this dispute resolution guide for parents walks through your out-of-court options and how to apply for a court order if needed.
Seeking to Obtain Parental Responsibility for Your Child?
Let Dads’ Consultancy be your trusted guide through the process. Book a free appointment with us today to discuss your needs and navigate the legal intricacies with confidence. For quick queries, reach out to us on WhatsApp using the button above.
🧠 Insider Insight: Lach, our founder, is a qualified social worker who used to write Section 7 reports for CAFCASS — the very reports that influence court outcomes. Now he helps dads respond to them. Learn more about Lach’s background.
