Page 3 - Parental Rights and Responsibilities

GUIDE TO PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

to father obtaining parental rights may also be relevant to the decision. Furthermore if the child is twelve or over
the child’s views should also be taken into consideration before any decision is made.

In addition to the father obtaining parental rights it is also possible for other people to obtain these rights e.g.

step-parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles etc. They can apply to the courts for these rights to be granted.
Again the court will base their decision solely on the best interests of the child. It may be that the mother is no
longer capable of looking after their child and the grandparents feel it is necessary for them to be given authority
to make decisions about their grandchildren’s well- being.

Please note that parental rights and responsibilities do not encompass the responsibility of financial provision of
the child. Unless the parents agree between themselves the level of financial support to be given, this decision
will be referred to the Child Maintenance Service. An application will be submitted to that body, which will make a

determination on the level of financial provision to be provided. This determination will stand until the child
reaches the age of 16. In some circumstances, however, financial provision can continue after the age of 16, e.g.
when the child continues in full time education.

We have a specialised team who deal with this emotive area of law. If you have any queries about the above
article or wish advice on this matter please do not hesitate to contact us where you will be given efficient and
confidential advice.

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