The term ‘Parental Responsibility’ refers to the rights, responsibilities, duties and authorities that a parent (or, in some circumstances, a third party) can have in relation to a child.

By way of example, anyone with parental responsibility for a child has the following responsibilities/ duties in respect of that child:

1) A duty to care for the child; most notably to provide them with a home;

2) To be involved in key decisions involving the child’s health such as consent to medical treatment or to obtain appropriate treatment;

3)  To name the child (and to provide their consent to any suggested name changes); and

4) To ensure the child receives appropriate education and to be involved in key decisions regarding their education such as where they should attend school.

If you would like further information as to who has parental responsibility, how you may acquire it or what your options are if you are being excluded from exercising your parental responsibility then our Family Law Solicitors can help - please contact Alex Mansfield on 01902 328365 or at amansfield@georgegreen.co.uk.