Parental responsibility

Parental responsibility means the right and the duty to care for and raise a child, and to decide about important matters such as school, medical treatment and where the child lives. Who has parental responsibility depends on the situation in which the child was born and on what has been arranged since.

Who has parental responsibility?

Married parents and civil partners usually both have parental responsibility automatically. For unmarried parents this is not always the case. The other parent can then acquire it, for example through registration or an agreement.

Joint responsibility after a separation

After a separation both parents usually keep parental responsibility. That means you have to take important decisions about your child together. When you cannot agree, the court can decide on a specific question.

Sole parental responsibility

In exceptional situations, one parent may ask the court for sole responsibility, for instance when the parents cannot communicate at all and the child suffers from this. The court only grants this when it is in the best interests of the child.

Moving house with your child

Do you want to move to another city or abroad with your child? With joint responsibility you need the consent of the other parent, or else permission from the court. We advise you on the steps and represent you.

Changing your child's surname

Changing a child's surname is possible in some situations, but the rules are strict. We are happy to tell you what applies to your situation.

Disputes between parents

When parents disagree about schools, medical care or travel, we look for a solution that serves the child first. Where necessary we ask the court to decide.