You'll find everything you need to understand your parental rights and responsibilities right here, with expert guidance covering education, child protection, family law, and children's behaviour. Our comprehensive resources help you navigate important topics from custody and adoption to school attendance and financial responsibilities. Law and Parents is here to help.
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Leaving Your Children Home Alone
UK law doesn't set a specific age for leaving children home alone, but parents must use reasonable judgment to avoid harm.
Do I Have the Right to Know Where My Children Are?
Parents have the right to know their child's whereabouts during the other parent's care, with some legal limits.
Can We Legally Throw Out Our 16-Year-Old Son?
You can't legally evict your 16-year-old; parental responsibility means providing a home until they turn 18.
Parental Rights Checker (Free Tool)
Check your legal rights as a parent on education, health and welfare decisions.
Child Off School for a Holiday: Fines and the Law
Taking your child out of school for a holiday can result in fines up to £120 per parent, as head teachers can rarely authorise term-time absences.
What to Do if Your Child Is Arrested
Your child has been arrested—here's what happens next and how you can support them through the process.
Parental Rights After Separation if You Were Never Married
Unmarried fathers can get legal parental rights through the birth certificate, a signed agreement, or a court order after separation.
Special Educational Needs: Getting Your Child an EHCP
An EHCP is a legal document that sets out your child's special needs and the support they must receive from school and local services.
Your Rights When Social Services Get Involved
Know what happens when social services gets involved with your family and what rights you have throughout the process.
What Happens if Your Child Is Excluded from School
Your rights and next steps when a school excludes your child, from fixed-term suspension to permanent removal.
Child Maintenance Service and How It Might Affect You
The Child Maintenance Service replaced the old CSA system in 2013, gradually closing cases and reassessing who should pay child support.
Accessing Your Child's Medical Records: Your Rights
Parents with parental responsibility can access their child's medical records if they're under 16, but the rules differ for mothers and fathers.
What Is the Child Sex Offenders Disclosure Scheme?
Parents and guardians can request information about whether someone poses a risk to children under this disclosure scheme.
Your Rights as a Grandparent
What legal rights do grandparents have to maintain contact with their grandchildren after family breakdown.