Ask Our Experts

Are We Breaking the Law by Home Schooling?

Home schooling is legal in England as long as your child gets an education, but you should notify your local education authority first.

Can I Change My Daughter's Surname?

You can change your daughter's surname if you have parental responsibility, but her father's consent may be required depending on his legal status.

Can I Stop My Children Meeting My Husbands' Partner?

You can't legally stop your ex from seeing your children or meeting his new partner unless you prove it harms them in court.

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.

Can We Stop Our Father's Visitation Rights to See Us?

Your wishes matter most in court decisions about contact with an abusive parent, and you can ask a judge to stop visits if you're unsafe.

Children Taken Into Care: What Are My Legal Rights?

If your children are in care, you have legal rights to challenge the decision, but you'll need to act fast and understand how the court system works.

Could a Child Choose Which Parent to Live With?

When parents disagree about where a child lives, you may need a court order to change a residence arrangement legally.

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.

Do I Have to Bring My Daughter Back?

When your spouse tells you to leave with your daughter, what are your legal rights if he later wants her back.

Should We Still Pay Maintenance?

Child maintenance is legally required until age 18, but payments can change if your income or custody arrangements shift.

What Are My Ex-Partners Visitation Rights?

Your ex-partner can't just show up whenever they want, but they do have a right to contact and spend time with the children.

What Rights Do I Have as a Grandparent?

Grandparents can gain legal rights through parental responsibility orders, residence orders, or special guardianship orders under UK law.

When to Consider Legal Guardianship

Picking a legal guardian for your child is crucial if something happens to you, so choose someone stable and trustworthy who'll commit long-term.