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Registering The Birth of a Child

Author: Jack Claridge
Registering The Birth of a Child

In England and Wales, a new baby must be registered within 42 days of its birth. This is usually carried out at your local registry office, although in some cases a mother may be able to register her baby before she leaves hospital if a registrar is present.

Why is it Important to Register The Birth of a Child?

Your child's birth needs to be registered so that they are legally recognised. After the registration, you will receive your baby's birth certificate as proof of registration, and this document will be required if you are claiming any benefits and to prove their identification. Both parents should be named on the birth certificate, if they are known.

Who Can Register The Birth?

The birth can be registered by:

  • Either the mother or father if they are married
  • The child's mother if she is not married

If one of the parents cannot attend the registration, they need to fill in a statutory declaration form and this should be handed in to the registrar.

If a Parental Responsibility agreement in place or either parent has an appropriate court order, this can be presented at the time of registration.

If the father's details are not recorded, it may be possible for these details to be registered at a later date.

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What if the Parents Cannot Attend?

If neither the mother or father can attend the registration, then the following may register the birth in their place:

  • The Occupier of the house or hospital where the child was born
  • The person who was present at the birth
  • The person who is responsible for the child

What Information Do We Have To Provide?

You must provide the registrar with the following information for your baby's birth certificate:

  • The date of your child's birth
  • The place of your child's birth
  • Your baby's full name and gender
  • Name, date and place of birth and occupation of the father
  • Name, date and place of birth and occupation of the mother

Make Sure You Get it Right

Registering the birth of your child is a happy experience but, as a birth certificate is a legal document, every attempt should be made to ensure that all information and details relating to both the birth and to the birth parents is accurate at the time of registration. Make sure that all spellings, especially your child's name, are correct as these cannot be corrected.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Parental Rights Checker lets you check your legal rights as a parent on education, health and welfare decisions. Try it now →

373 Comments
Ask a Question or Comment
Treeseeker 22 Mar 2025
Hi! I have been tracing my family tree. My grandmother was born in Cirencester Workhouse. The Master of the workhouse, Robert Chappell Freeman, was also the local registrar. His signature is on my grandmother's birth certificate. I have anther birth certificate for another child who was also born in the workhouse. It too is signed by Robert Chappell Freeman. However, the signatures are clearly not the same. Is one of these certificates fake or invalid?
Alex 20 Mar 2021
Hello , I’m legally still married but we have separate over two years now and I’m pregnant 5 weeks with someone else ! Can I put my baby on his biological father ?
Kitty 22 Aug 2020
Hi my son and his gf separated before the birth of their child he is an active father and pays maintenance and really wants to be part of the child's life, his x has said she is not going to put his name of the birth certificate, can she do this or can he stop her from registering the child births without him??
Emmy 9 Jul 2020
Hi, I'm seperated from my husband and I just had a baby with another man. Can I add him to the birth certificate wihtout having any issues because I'm legally still married.
Shah 29 Jan 2020
Hi me and my husband are still married but he ran off after arriving in the UK & leaving me pregnant. We tried to make tried to make things work & we had a son 3 years ago. He obtained a court order for his son only to assist his visa and to reinstate it. He does not live with us since he arrived in the UK but occasionally visits & I am pregnant again. Him and his family are adamant on naming the baby & he says he is going to register the baby by himself and I really don’t want this as I know they will give my baby the worst possible name... I’m really struggling with this thought of him just going to register the baby without my consent.. what can I do as we are still married and he is the father of my children.. I’m just in such an awkward situation.. does he have the right to register without me ? Will they not ask him for any proof that I give consent or any other documents?
Granny 19 Jan 2020
Hi I'm due to have a baby in 2 wks time ..I have been seperated from my husband for over 2 yrs .can I legally put my new baby s father on the birth certificate even though I still use my married name
Zaina 23 Dec 2019
I couldn’t recognise my baby dad so I registered him on my surname,but know because of the look I start to recognise my baby father if i make DNA is it ok to register my baby again on his real father name
Alex 10 Sep 2019
I am legally married but I am having a baby with another man. How shall I proceed to register the child having my new boyfriend as the father?
Gusboy 20 Aug 2019
Hi my son in law does not want to go on the birth certificate ofor my grandson even though he was conceived through I'VE so is definitely the father. He also says he cannot be forced to be on certificate although they are still married.
Na 11 Aug 2019
Hi Ileft my baby's dad when I was early in my pregnancy I met a new man who was there when I had my little boy is it a criminal offence to put my new partner on his birth certificate we rnt married.
Ron 17 Jul 2019
Hi my partner at the time convinced me that the child we had was mine so I put my name on the birth certificate even though she new I was not the biological father which I have recently found out. How do I go about getting my name of as I can have my name on it now more thanks
Tbobby 1 Jul 2019
Hello, my girlfriend is illegal and we had a baby, can we still register the baby with her as the mother as she's from the Caribbean and don't have the right to be here?
Phil 23 Apr 2019
Hi, I have registered my son, however, due to the lack of sleep I incorrectly gave my birth place as the town I live in now. Therefore my two sons birth certificates contradict each other. Will this be a problem and need to be corrected? Thanks
Jade 15 Apr 2019
Hi my son is 4 his dad has been in and out of his life since he was 11months he does have him some weekends and every time he does my son comes home using violent and aggressive behaviour even the nursery have complained about it and have told me to stop him going there I hate to do it but I haven't really got a choice in it he is know for drug and drink use he was violent towards me and have had 2 restraining orders on him over the past 5years he is not in his birth certificate as I refused a man like that to be on it if I stop contact what rights will he have to my child?
Taz 15 Mar 2019
Hi looking at the birth certificate of my child I noticed that it has both mine and his dads address as his own so where is he redjistered at? He lives with me but I’m worried that this means he technically lives at both and I don’t want this how do I change it if that is the case?
Paz 5 Mar 2019
Hi, when I gave birth to my son I was in a domestic abuse relationship and I wanted to give my son my last name but my boyfriend at the time and his mum made sure my son didn't have my last name I was told by my ex (partner at the time) that he would make my life hell if I didn't put his last name as my son's so when he beat me up I left him as I didn't recognise any signs of this abuse I have changed my son's last name by deed poll but I want to change it on the birth cert how would this be possible please
Joe 23 Feb 2019
Hi there, my fathers name was never put on my birth certificate at birth. My mum took him to court under the affiliation act in 1973 for child support, which he paid. He has now passed away, but I want to add him to my birth certificate, can this be done and do I have go to court....
Shaz 21 Feb 2019
My boyfriend is separated from his wife and currently going through divorce. However she is due to give birth soon and the divorce won’t be finalised and she’s threatening to put his name as the father on the birth certificate even though he isn’t. Can we stop this happening at all? Thank you
Cebcity 3 Dec 2018
Hi When I registered my son,I was told that I could give him any random surname that is neither father's or mother's surname, so I gave my son a random surname. Now we have moved to Europe and the authorities want proof that this is indeed allowed in UK Law. They want an article in the law that proves this is true. Where can I find this and what article is it?
Jean123 27 Oct 2018
I dont want to put my husbands name on our babys birth certificTe but we are married since 2015. Doi have to legally put him on? Were going threw a difficult time as hes been aving a affair and i wouldnt want him to play games with custody. I will allow acess wen i no he can resposibly take care of a child alone. But if hes on certifictae he can leggaly take r child.
MrsA 8 Sep 2018
Hi a member of my family has had a baby with his gf, he was present at the birth and did not know that his gf her mother and gran registered the birth without him. He’s not named on the birth certificate. Is there anything he can do to change this?
Sharon 6 Sep 2018
I have just found out my son has a 5 year old daughter. The mother of the child knowing put her new partner as the father. (who she is no Longer with but still has a Contact with ) We have done dna test. She is now back tracking and doesn't want to upset the little girl. And basically lie to her for the rest of her life! How do we go about getting my son on her birth certificate Thanks
LawAndParents Editor 24 Aug 2018
No this shouldn't be an issue.
Jane 23 Aug 2018
Hi, I got my baby registered and used my address for his father's address as he is temporarily staying with me as he got kicked out from his mum's, is this an issue?
azaria 1 Aug 2018
I have a child with an illegal immigrant who doesnt have passport an doesnt want to go back to her country to apply for a passport and our child doesnt have a birth certificate and she is 4yrs now I'm worried about her future..as her father who is RSA citizen is it possible to apply a birthday certificate n register her in my name..Plz help I'm really worried about my daughter it really hurts!
Dal 15 Jul 2018
My ex gf didn’t put me on the birth certificate of our little girl. Is that against the law knowing I’m the father? Do I have to pay to be put on the birth certificate?
Bill 11 Jul 2018
I am currently married.. my wife is now pregnant with another man's child. He is an illegal immigrant who is currently in jail for intent to supply.. as we are married does this mean that I will need to sign the birth certificate? If not what course will I need to take..
LawAndParents Editor 29 Jun 2018
Yes if you were married at the time it's a straightforward process See the government page here
Babs 27 Jun 2018
I was married, but not on good terms with my husband and didnt place his name on my child's birth certificate. My child is 24 and regret my actions back then. Can I get the fathers name placed on the birth certificate.
LawAndParents Editor 22 Jun 2018
Is he the biological father? If so he is responsible for maintenance payments.
ConfusedUncle 21 Jun 2018
Hi, my brother is currently beibg harrassed for CSA, however he was not present at birth, nor did he attend registration for his children due to the mother refusing him to be there. Solicitors state his name is on the birth certificate, but he has no proof. What can he do?
Robyn 18 Jun 2018
Why has the father of my child got two residential addresses on birth certificate? One is own and the other is mine? He never lived at my address? Confused.
Robyn 18 Jun 2018
Why does the father of my child have two residential addresses on my daughter's birth certificate? One is his own address and the other is mine but he didn't live with me?
Gracy 12 Jun 2018
I really want to know....can an unmarried mother register her baby six months after giving birth? She did not register her baby at birth....can she still register the baby when he is six months old?
LawAndParents Editor 5 Jun 2018
No, you can give a child any name you choose. You do however, have to have the father's consent to name him as the father of the child on the birth certificate.
bestwestie 4 Jun 2018
What legal rights do unmarried parents have over their new born? Does the mother need to have her name as part of the babys surname? The father’s name is prefered. Will this give him more legal rights?
Chants 3 Jun 2018
My baby is 6 months and her dad wants to put his name on her birth certificate now. Is it too late? And will it be his full name or last name only?And will he get some rights?
H 25 May 2018
Missed my appointment and baby is 42 days in a few days. Can't get another apt until late June. What do I do?
Anon 23 May 2018
Are hmrc informed when you register a child?
LawAndParents Editor 16 May 2018
Your partner will need to complete a statutory declaration of parentage form and you can take the signed form when you register the birth. Here's where to find the form
LawAndParents Editor 15 May 2018
Go back to your local registrar and ask why you didn't receive the full birth certificate, they should be able to tell you why it's not possible and if you need to re-register.
Kayd1 14 May 2018
I am due to give birth soon but my patner will be away in Afghan with the military and wont be back for the birth or in the days after to register the birth. We are not married but I want the little man to have his surname and for him to be on the birth certificate. How can I do this? Thank you
Becca 11 May 2018
Hello, me and my ex registered our baby in 2016 but did not get a full birth certificate. I have tried to order two but there has always been a problem and I haven't received it. Does this mean I need to re register her. To get a full birth certificate?
LawAndParents Editor 8 May 2018
This shouldn't be a problem as long as the biological father consents.
Bella 6 May 2018
Hi. Legally I'm still married but I have been separated for a long long time, over 8 years. My husband lives abroad and we don't have much contact, but neither of us have applied for a divorce yet. However, I'm now 6 months pregnant with another man's baby with whom I'm not in a relationship anymore - he only told me he's married after I got pregnant. Despite of the messy situation we're being adults and he wants to be involved in the child's life. Meaning he'd want to be on the birth certificate and the child's name would be made up of both of our surname, hyphenated. Now. Could someone please tell me if we'll have any issues having the biological father's name on the birth certificate, despite of me still being legally married to my ex? Thanks for the help in advance.
Chez 23 Apr 2018
My sons now 8, his father lives in Ireland with his new wife whom he has a daughter with, he has asked to be added to the birth certificate after nearly 9 years of not being on it.. I’m just worried there’s a motive to wanting to be added to it now, what are the laws around him being able to keep my son in Ireland if I went ahead?
LawAndParents Editor 9 Apr 2018
If he's not the biological father he cannot be added to the birth certificate. Your partner could consider applying for a Parental Responsibility agreement
Ponypies6 8 Apr 2018
My daughter doesn’t know who her real father is (she’s only 2). She thinks my partner is her daddy. Is there anyway he can either have parental rights or added to the birth certificate?
LawAndParents Editor 4 Apr 2018
No, the father's permission is required before it can be put on the birth certificate unless they were married. In general: "Either parent can register the birth on their own. They can include both parents’ details if they were married when the baby was born or conceived. Unmarried parents: - The details of both parents can be included on the birth certificate if one of the following happens: - they sign the birth register together - one parent completes a statutory declaration of parentage form and the other takes the signed form to register the birth - one parent goes to register the birth with a document from the court (eg a court order) giving the father parental responsibility The mother can choose to register the birth on her own if she isn’t married to the child’s father. The father’s details won’t be included on the birth certificate."
Sammy 2 Apr 2018
Hi , my son has recently split from his partner . She registered their son at birth 20 months ago but didn’t have his name put on the birth certificate. Now she has informed him that she has now registered his name on the birth certificate but can she just do this without him knowing or signing a declaration? She said she needed it for the letting agency which she is about to rent with her new partner?He also received a form from csa this week despite paying her child maintenance weekly
LawAndParents Editor 28 Mar 2018
You will need to agree this between yourselves if the care is shared on 50.50 basis.
LawAndParents Editor 28 Mar 2018
You do not have to put name him on the birth certificate but he can apply to the court to have his name added to the birth certificate if he chooses.
Nat 26 Mar 2018
What happens to benefits if you have 50/50 contact with your baby. We both have 3.5 days a week with him... who claims?
Nat 26 Mar 2018
Me and my husband broke up roughly a month ago it turns out I'm just over a month pregnant. As we are married if I have this baby do I have to put him on the birth certificate?
Mickxx 17 Mar 2018
Hi. I recently got married and within few months of my marriage I had to get a barring order from my husband due to domestic abuse and violence...and a couple of times I almost lost my baby due to my husband emotional and verbal abuse. I struggled throughout the rest of my pregnancy all by myself until I gave birth to my beautiful baby. To cut the story short I registered my baby with my surname only. But put her father details on the birth certificate. Now since the birth of my baby my husband never want to contribute with the maintenance and also refusing to sign the baby passport saying that the baby don't have he's surname. What can I do please
Stuie 25 Feb 2018
Hi i had a baby last year April, a month after my partner cut all communication after i couldn't make the registration of birth because i started new job and it was two days notice, i live wales she lives London, I've not heard a reply since i don't know where she is, she lost her rights few years prison from a offense that she had three years, she can leave UK but would not be able to return, other week she got me done for harasment on me begging her to ring me , because I've not seen them for nearly a year since he was born, i had to plea guilty, in her statement she says that the child is not mine, I've a hospital percritption document, that she had sent with my surname on, from a month after he was born. The baby is definitely mine, i will prove that by DNA, but cos she's lied in court Nd being she's lost her rights, what could potentially happened to her and the evidence is so highly stack against her thanks Stuart
Bd 24 Feb 2018
What happens if a parent lies about there occupation
LawAndParents Editor 19 Feb 2018
Only one parent can claim Child Benefit, this is usually the parent with majority care. The same may apply to Child tax credits, you would need to contact HMRC to ask about that.
Jo4321 19 Feb 2018
Hello I have a 3 year old son but his dad is not on the birth certificate and he has residence my little boy and do I have to put him on the birth certificate to get half of child tax and child benefit.
LawAndParents Editor 6 Feb 2018
It's better to put the address at which you're actually living so you should really take steps to register yourself at the place you live to avoid confusion.
Bee 6 Feb 2018
I have given birth to a beautiful girl but I'm so confused about address wise. Me and babies dad have different legal addresses, I 'lodge' with my partner although I am still registered at my mother's address. Whos address would she legally be registered a mother's or fathers as we will be staying there for a little while
Sam 31 Jan 2018
I dated a man twice known him a few mth and then he broke up with me after the breakup i found out that im pregnant. Now this guy wants to use baby to get permenant visa to live in uk and i dont want him to be a part of our lives .... what are my rights .. the baby isnt born yet its a risky complicated pregnancy too ...
LawAndParents Editor 29 Jan 2018
You can apply to the courts to have your name added to the birth certificate. Likewise if you want contact with your child(ren) and the mother is preventing it, the courts will be able to help you with a court order. If you can possibly come to an agreement via a mediation service before trying court that would be recommended.
LawAndParents Editor 29 Jan 2018
You're not obliged to inform your ex of a change of address as long as the relevant authorities (relating to child contact, maintenance etc) can contact you.
Anaya 26 Jan 2018
Ive just came in the uk on spouse visa and pragnant 5 months my husband left me and I have doubts as he is threatening me he is not going to registers our kid on his name I want to know that what will my baby rites here as I’m afraid he’ll send us both back can any one help me to know what will mine and my baby rites after his birth
LawAndParents Editor 26 Jan 2018
Yes if the mother consents this is a relatively straightforward process - here is the form you need to complete
wizard 26 Jan 2018
Can some one tell me the law on a women not letting the male know she's gone to give birth does so registered the baby and the farther unknown then contacts csa to have money out my wages I have one child to this lady another she will not let me see and one on the way and she will do the same again I only see my first cos he is in my name just!!! I had to have that amended I love my kids to bits can someone shed some light on that for me pkease
Singledad 26 Jan 2018
Hi please can someone help I have PR of my daughter I’m on birth certificate was reg on 2 December 2003. The mother walked out in 2008 so coming up 10 years. Not hardly any contact just trouble. So I have to say to her my change of address even if in same area just a little further away.
Simon 24 Jan 2018
Just a quick question really, I have a 21 year old daughter and I was never on her birth certificate and now she wants me adding. Can this be done?
Tee 21 Jan 2018
I'm pregnant, due in 3 months, the partner I'm with isn't the father but wants to be legally, can I put him on the birth certificate?
Maria 19 Jan 2018
Hi I have few questions! 1.romanian couple unmarried with child born in uk 4 months ago Child registered on fathers name but the parents are separated now Who have the rights for the children? Which is the father responsibility? What he need to do or pay? 2. The father is not sure the child is his how he can get a DNA test? What he will need for a DnA test? If they are unmarried they need to announce anyone about the brake up? Thanks
L.B 17 Jan 2018
If my child's father has lied about his occupation on her birth certificate is it fraud. I'm going to marry my current partner of 7 years (my daughter is 10) & he wants to adopt her. Does the lie on the birth certificate mean I can remove her biological father off it for false information as I don't think he will allow my partner to adopt her even though he's not seen her since she was 3
LawAndParents Editor 17 Jan 2018
If you have parental responsibility, you do have some say in an important decisions like this relating to your child. You can apply to the courts to have your name added to the birth certificate if you are the biological father.
Mal 17 Jan 2018
My friend has a child with a girl whom he has split with for over3 years now, his name is on the birth certificate but the mother keeps getting drunk and taking drugs and threatening to take her life can the dad just keep the kid with him as he has perantal responsibility? Legally where does he stand could the police come and take the child away ?
Ben 14 Jan 2018
Hi i have a daughter with a ex partner who i was not married to, she didnt put me on my daughters birth certificate but my daughter has my last name as i have a son with her whos birth certificate i am on , she refuses to put me on it but i have both my son and daughter every weekend my daughter is now 5 and her mother hasnt enrolled her in school as i am not on her birth certificate i cant enroll her my self, will i get into trouble because my daughter isnt in school or as im not on birth certificate is that responsibilty her moms?
LawAndParents Editor 9 Jan 2018
If he is not the natural father he can remove his name from the birth certificate via a court order. It's his choice really.
MM 8 Jan 2018
Hi, My husband has recently performed a DNA with his eldest child and unfortunately has found that he is not his father. His "son" is now 24 years old. He was put on the birth certificate but not until the boy was 12, as the mother contacted him to make him aware of the child-he did not question parentage as all dates added up to him. Does my husband need to legally remove his name from the boys birth certificate? What implications are there by not removing? Any advice would be gratefully received!
LawAndParents Editor 5 Jan 2018
No you can simply include the name of the biological father (with his consent) on the birth certificate.
Jay 3 Jan 2018
I am pregnant with ny current partner. Altho i am still married to my ex i soerated from him 4 years ago. Will their be any ossues with registering baby with my partner the biplogical father. Can my ex cause any ossues
JoJo2106 29 Dec 2017
Hi, My baby boy is now almost 4 months old and I split from his dad when he was only 2 or 3 weeks old due to our volatile relationship and the fact I no longer loved him. The thing is I was more or less made to register my baby under my exes surname even though I had said i would prefer him in my name. He controlled the situation an said the baby going in my name wouldn't be happening and drove me to the registry office so we were there together. I felt totally manipulated into allowing his surname to be used and I am really not happy about It, especially as I have ended the relationship only 2 weeks into my babies birth. I wish I had stood my ground but was so exhausted and wore out been a new mother I felt pushed into it. Only now as the months have gone on I realise the mistake i have made. There is no way he will give permission to me to change the surname by deed poll but would a court order take the fact i was controlled by my ex to use his name into consideration. It is seriously affecting my mental state and feel down and depressed because of this.
Smurf 20 Dec 2017
Hello, I am married but separated and seeing divorce after domestic violence marriage, although my husband is the father I do not want him to have parental rights over the child do I have to have him on the birth certificate or can I put unknown? Once he is rehabilitated I will be willing to add him eventually, but I can’t risk him taking my child as hell have full pr. I am due to give birth in March. Thank you
LawAndParents Editor 15 Dec 2017
If the father refuses to have his name on the birth certificate, it is possible to apply for a court order, the judge may order a DNA test if the father refutes paternity.
Charlotte ???? 13 Dec 2017
My ex won’t sign the birth certificate but I don’t want to leave it blank. Is there anything I can do to get his name down? Willing to take legal action against him as it’s not fair that my son should have that left blank as he doesn’t want to take responsibility.
LawAndParents Editor 8 Dec 2017
You cannot put your husband's name on the birth certificate if he's not the natural father. If the natural father agrees, you can put his name on the certificate. The registrar will require proof of his consent so he may have to go with your, sign a form etc.
Dely 7 Dec 2017
I gave birth to a girl 30 days ago and I have an issue registration her. The problem is that the father of my child is not my husband. Thean is happy to recognise the child as his but I'm not sure how to do it
Anna123x 6 Nov 2017
I am 32 weeks preganunt and I am just a bit worried about the father of my baby as he is under the age of 16 he is 15 and I am 17years old we have been in a realtionship for 3 years we just worried if he would get declined or turned down to be on the baby’s birth certificate or if anything would happen?
LawAndParents Editor 6 Nov 2017
You can actually name your child however you like. It would be a little inconsiderate however, to give the father's name if the father is not on the birth certificate.
Miaaa 4 Nov 2017
Can I my child have his fathers second name if the father is not on the birth certificate? Or does it HAVE to be my second name?
theash 10 Oct 2017
I am an eu citizen living in London, UK. Back in my country I am still married, but havent been living with my partner for years. I am pregnant to an UK citizen and he wants to be on a birth certificate, I will be giving birth in the UK. Is me being married in another country going to be an issue when registring birth of a newborn baby in the UK?
Mitch 6 Oct 2017
My ex is not allowing me on the certificate of my unborn child due late this month, what actions do I take to ensure I'm on my sons birth certificate because if I'm not I know she will never allow me to see him. T.I.A
Vixster73 5 Oct 2017
My baby is due in mid November. I live with the baby's father but I am still legally married to my ex. Does my ex have any legal claim and/or obligation to the child and can the child's father be named on the birth certificate?
LawAndParents Editor 4 Oct 2017
If you knew your husband was not the natural father, then yes it was wrong to put your husband's name on the birth certificate. You can get it removed if you say it was added in error etc.
Thelovelynat 3 Oct 2017
So I have a question...15 years ago I was married but separated.i feel pregnant with a man I was seeing and he didn't want to know. Myself and hubby got back together when I was 4 months pregnant and we were told at the time to be sure about putting hubbys name on birth certificate as hubby would be responsible for life even if we split again. We stayed married until 5 years ago and for the last 2 he has been paying maintenance. Now he has got a new in his bonnet and decided he is going to inform csa that he isn't my girls father so he doesn't have to pay. One of my biggest concerns here is the birth certificate as I can't find a clear answer as to whether we were in the wrong to put his name down even though we married at the time and both knew what we were doing. Any help welcome.
LawAndParents Editor 2 Oct 2017
The mother doesn't have to add a name to the birth certificate, but she could be made to by the courts if your boyfriend wants to follow it up.
Gillian 29 Sep 2017
Hi. How can my boyfriend get his name on his sons birthcertificate if the mother wont allow it? He was in prison wen the mother took there son to get registerd. Now hes out prison and there not together and she wont put his name on it. Is there anywae he can get this done without her approval?
LawAndParents Editor 29 Sep 2017
The father needs to give his consent. If he refuses you can still take it court and get his name added.
Lauren 28 Sep 2017
Hi, My ex partner is the father to my unborn baby. I am already thinking about what is going to happen when i sign the certificate. He doesnt want any involvemnet and so i doubt he will sign anything nor show up to register the baby. But i do want him on the certificate so when she is older she knows who her dad is and it will show i didnt hide anything. Does he have to be present/sign something in order to go on the certificate or am i able to add him on the certificate myself? Thanks
LawAndParents Editor 26 Sep 2017
Only the biological father can be on the birth certificate. You cannot be adopted over the age of 18.
Hollie 24 Sep 2017
Hi I am 24 and trying 2 get my step dad on my birth certificate I want him 2 adopt me as a Xmas presys how would i go about this i have bin trying for over a yer 2 get this done
LawAndParents Editor 7 Sep 2017
No the first child's certificate should stay the same.
Tiny 6 Sep 2017
My sister come to live with my mum and dad when she was 2 her real mother who as accosional contact does not no who her father is. My sister is now 14 and her real mother is now married she is saying that she has pit her husband's name on my sister's birth certificate is this possible ?
Anon 6 Sep 2017
Hi I have a child with the man I am marrying and I know I need to re register that child's birth, but I have another child from a previous relationship. Would I need to change my name on that child's birth certificate too? Or just the one who's father I am marrying.
LawAndParents Editor 5 Sep 2017
Yes you can re-register the births, it does not cost anything. Here is a link to the Application form you need to complete
S 2 Sep 2017
Hi I have just married my children's father I was recently told about re registering my children's birth as they were born before we married. Is this true do we have to do this or does it make no difference
Unnamed 24 Aug 2017
Hi how does the father apply to be on the birth certificate if he is in prison at the time so can not make it to register the baby
Smita 24 Aug 2017
HI THERE MY NAME IS SMITA...ME AND MY FIRST HUSBAND IS..SEPRATED SINCE 2014.....NOW M LIVING WITH MY ANOTHER PARTNER...BUT WE NOT MARRIED YET WE LIVING AS IN LIVING RELATIONSHIP....NOW ITS 3 YEARS 2017.....NOW WE HAVE BABY....AND BABY TOOK BIRTH ON SAME DATE 9 AUG 2017....WHEN I HAD DIVORCE FROM MY FIRST HUSBAND....NOW WE WANT TO GO FOR BABY'S BIRTH REGISTRATION....BUT MY PARTNER I MEAN BABY'S DAD HE IS ILLEGAL IN THIS COUNTRY....SINCE 2012.....HE CAME ON STUDENT VISA IN 2010.....HE OVER STAYED SINCE 2012...HIS VISA IS EXPIRE.....NOW I WANT GO TO REGISTRAR....BUT I FONT TO TAKE HIM WITH...ME BECAUSE OTHERWISE HE GONNA BE IN TROUBLE.....WITH IMMIGRATION...ITS NEARLY 3 YEARS...WE LIVING TOGETHER....BUT I HAVE DOCUMENTS FROM...NHS....WHERE HIS NAME DOB....AND RELATIONSHIP TO BABY IS MENTION....I AM BRITISH CITIZEN ANY ADVICE....SOMEONE...TOLD ME THAT I CAN GO ALONE.....PLEASE ANY ADVICE THANK YOU
LawAndParents Editor 22 Aug 2017
Yes he can apply to the courts to have his name added to the birth certificate if the mother will not agree.
Chrissie 20 Aug 2017
Hi my brother was married to his wife long before they had there son but she went an registered my nephew without my brother or putting my brother on the certificate even though they were married an together they have since split an my brother had his little boy living with him can he reregister an put his name on he has the marriage certificate to show/prove they were married at the time?
LawAndParents Editor 17 Aug 2017
You cannot put the name of anyone but the biological father on the birth certificate. If you want to change your child's surname you will need the consent of the biological father.
Hj 16 Aug 2017
There is no father name on my sons birth certificate reasons being his real dad carnt have nothing to do with him im just wondering could it be possiable for his step dad to be put down and change his last name or can i only change his name through deedpoll
LawAndParents Editor 31 Jul 2017
You can put the biological father of the child on its birth certificate. You won't need consent from your (soon to be ex) husband.
Grego 27 Jul 2017
Hi, I have been separated from my husband for 5 years but we remain married. I am currently pregnant with a new partners child. Am I able to put my new partners name on birth certificate? Do I need any consent from my husband to do so? Many thanks
LawAndParents Editor 25 Jul 2017
You usually have to give your name and also maiden name. If your (soon to be ex) husband is the natural father, he can apply to the courts to have the name added anyway, so it's probably worth added that regardless. If not, you will not need to include his name.
jazzy-jeff 18 Jul 2017
When registering a birth do I have to state that I am married to someone else whilst waiting for a divorce to be finalised?
A7571CE 7 Jul 2017
I have a son aged 19 months. I am not currently on his birth certificate as I have been in prison since his birth. Is it possible for me to get my name put on there now ? If so, can you please point me in the right direction. Both myself and his mam are wanting this.
LawAndParents Editor 5 Jul 2017
If the mother cannot attend the registry officer, she can make a statutory declaration, confirming the name of the father, which he should take with him to give to the registrar.
Marc 4 Jul 2017
Is it possible for a single/unmarried father to register the birth by himself if the mother is absent or deceased? Would this complicate things and would he be able to add the mother's details in either case? Would a statutory declaration form be required if absent but not deceased?
LawAndParents Editor 30 Jun 2017
If he is in prison at the time, there is a form that he can sign in the presence of a solicitor at that time. The family rights group or General Register Office should be able to tell you which form you need.
Slouiseknight18 29 Jun 2017
How would I go about registering my baby as my other could be in prison by the time baby is born just how do I get him on the birth certificate??
LawAndParents Editor 29 Jun 2017
No, there's no reason why he would have any rights over the baby if he is not the biological father.
TJ10 28 Jun 2017
I've been separated from my husband (not divorced) for 2 years. Married for 3 months before we seperated. I've recently had a baby with my partner. Does my husband have any legal rights to our baby?
LawAndParents Editor 23 Jun 2017
No, you can only add the biological father's name to a birth certificate.
Newmommy2018 22 Jun 2017
Hi, just a general question my ex partner is not interested in anything to to with this baby, im currently 12 weeks pregnant, his sister has been there from day one and is wondering if her brother doesnt want to be put on birth certificate and she wants responsibility can she be added on instead of him?
Netta 17 Jun 2017
I just want to know if I am allowed to register my baby in another mans name if I am still legaly married to my husband and it is my husbands child?
LawAndParents Editor 15 Jun 2017
You can choose whichever name you like for your baby's surname. You can only put the father's name on the birth certificate with his permission though.
Emmatrayf 12 Jun 2017
I am currently pregnant with my partners baby. He split from his wife 4 months ago - they are still married. What are the rules/laws on this? Do I put the child's last name as mine or my partners?
LawAndParents Editor 25 May 2017
If the court ordered you to add the father's name to the birth certificate you have to do so, or you can risk a fine/imprisonment. The father has already been granted parental responsibility so you will not take this away by withholding his name from the birth certificate. If your daughter sees him 16 hours per week he will be able to build a relationship with her, would you want her birth certificate not to show her father?
BabyCakes 24 May 2017
Hiya, my babies dad isn't currently on the birth certificate but has been granted parental responsibility from the court. In court I said I'd re-register her birth but after careful consideration I really don't want to. My daughters dad will only have care of our daughter twice a week for 8hrs each of these days. Am I within my right as our daughters mother to refuse to do this? Please help. Thanks
LawAndParents Editor 23 May 2017
If you've been separated more than a year, we assume your ex husband is not the father of your baby. In that case it would be illegal/fraudulent to name him on the birth certificate.
Ds 22 May 2017
Hello I'm in a separate to my husband more then 1 year I have give birth to baby and in the register office they inform me that as I don't know how is the dad I need to register my baby on my ex as I don't have a legal deforse and ability to register the baby only on my name whit out a DNA test to prove that my ex is not the father
Roza 21 May 2017
I did register 5days ago with my details and not with the fathers details. I wonna put the fathers details and change my childs second name. Can I if its not to late?
LawAndParents Editor 17 May 2017
If you're not sure who the father of baby is, you should not name him on the birth certificate until you absolutely positive.
LawAndParents Editor 17 May 2017
If you don't pu him on the birth certificate he can still apply to the courts to have it added if he chooses to. Also if his name is not on birth certificate, you will not be able to claim any maintenance support or help from him as easily. He may feel as though he wants to be more involved once the baby comes along.
LawAndParents Editor 16 May 2017
You can choose not to put the father on the birth certificate if you go to register the birth alone. However, if you are/were married to the father, he can insist on having his name added to the certificate retrospectively and yes, he does have parental rights as you were married at the time.
CatHawk 16 May 2017
Hi, I am unsure of who the father of my child is but am now happily married, can I legally register the baby with my husband as the father even though the paternity is in dispute with my ex boyfriend? I imagine at some point the ex will demand a DNA test, obviously if it came back that he is the biological father then he could have the birth certificate changed, that's fine but would I be in trouble legally for putting my husband's name down initially? Hope you can advise, thanks!
newmommy2017 16 May 2017
I'm currently 22 weeks pregnant with my first child. My child's father left me but still wants contact with his child. I have never told him no as I will always make sure that as long as he wants to see his son he can. However, I have been told by family members not to put his name on the birth certificate. He has shown no interest in his sons well being since the split, asking how we are twice. He's not bought his son anything, instead he's spent all his money on girls and getting drunk (only 19 and not very mature) Should I put him on the birth certificate and give him rights or not? Personally I don't trust him to have any legal rights but at the same time I will never deny him access.
Scrag 15 May 2017
I had a baby when I was married and my husband was not put on the birth certificate as he didn't want to be on it but now he has told me that the law states I should've added him on the birth certificate he said I broke the law by not adding him is this true ? As I told he he has no perental rights over as he's not on it
LawAndParents Editor 11 May 2017
This is something you need to agree on between the two of you when you go to register the birth. Unfortunately you can't insist on your surname. Would the mother agree to a double barelled name? If you ever get married it would work well.
Scottybhoy 8 May 2017
Is there anything I can do to stop my partner using her surname for my daughters registration of birth we are still together but not married and I would prefer my surname used
MissMac1981 5 May 2017
Ok..thanks for the response. Can charges be pressed and how would I report it. The actions of my mother have caused a huge amount of problems for me, my dad and my biological dad. How do I seek legal advice to pursue this?
LawAndParents Editor 5 May 2017
Yes, it is an offence to knowingly give details of the wrong father when registering a birth.
MissMac1981 5 May 2017
I have recently found out that my mother lied about who my biological father is. It was known from when she was pregnant who the father is. On my birth certificate my dad who I grew up with is on there not my biological father. At the time she was not married.... Is this illegal as the father's details are incorrect?
Eddi 5 May 2017
My ex partner smashed up the house when I said I wasn't giving our child his surname as I wanted to our baby to have my name (we weren't married). He also threatened me saying "there will be trouble" if I didn't comply. My ex insisted on coming with me to register the birth and made the appointment. Is there any way that, as the registration occurred under duress, I can get our sons surname changed and my ex removed from the birth certificate?
LawAndParents Editor 4 May 2017
Whose baby is it?
Su 4 May 2017
Hi, I am married but separated with my husband and having a baby and it's due to give birth in july with a new partner. Will I still be able to register my child with his fathers name on it while being married?
LawAndParents Editor 21 Apr 2017
No, the 2009 Welfare Reform Act did contain a provision that required mothers to name fathers (£200 fine and seven days in prison if they didn't) but the law never came into effect. If you want your name on your child's birth certificate you can still apply to have your name added via the courts.
Debs 20 Apr 2017
My partner of 3 years has a child with another woman and from the start she has refused to put his name on the birth certificate, and found excuses to stop him from seeing the child. he has tried over and over again to have access but nothing's worked. Is it legal for her to refuse to name him on the birth certificate?
Ant 18 Apr 2017
I'm just looking for some advice at the moment as this week I have heard that a new law has come out were if the fathers name isn't on his babies birth certificate the mother of forced todo so and if the mother fails she can be fined £200 My baby was born in 2014 can I still try and get this sorted if so who do I contact
LawAndParents Editor 18 Apr 2017
Child maintenance and contact are not related and payment disputes should not be used by a mother to prevent a child from seeing his/her father. Check with the CMS yourself to see if they've calculated correctly. If you can't agree on an amount the CMS can arrange it for you but this will incur charges. Mediation is your best option at this stage - to try and make agreements about both finance and child contact arrangements. If she refuses to attend a mediation session, apply to the courts.
Chris93 15 Apr 2017
Hi there I'm just asking advice me and my ex broke up while she was pregnant to my son so she blocked me from having anything else to do with him she had him a month ago and didn't put me on birth certificate and now she finally let me see him she's stopped again and says she's been on to csa and they said I should be paying £50 plus fees and expenses a week which I feel is unfair cause the government site calculations where £37 per week and she is refusing further contact till I pay and says she will put my name on birth certificate when I prove to her I'm good enough which I think is unfair so I told her I'm putting money In an account what I should be paying until she puts me on birth certificate and she's refusing to go through solicitors which have already sent her 2 letters through them I paid for everything he has but I just want to do it the right way but she won't which I'm frightened if I go through that route I won't see him for months I need advice do I fold to her demands or do I go through it the proper way in court . And thanks for any advice cause I'm lost on what to do seems though fathers rights mean nothing
Meg 14 Apr 2017
Hi, I am married but separated with my husband and having a baby in august with a new partner. Will I still be able to register my child with his fathers name on it while being married?
kezzaaa 13 Apr 2017
Can a guy find out if his name has been placed on a birth certificate?, as not in contact with the mother anymore. How easy is this to do?
LawAndParents Editor 11 Apr 2017
Yes you can email the General Register Officer at: [email protected]
Purpleseven 10 Apr 2017
I wanted to know if I could put my married name on my daughters birth certificate as it has my maiden name as I was married before she was even conceived thanks in advance
LawAndParents Editor 3 Apr 2017
Unfortunately it's difficult to prevent anyone seeing a birth certificate if they want to.
buddy 31 Mar 2017
hi, am a married guy but am having problems with my husband,he is seeing another guy and am seeing a lady who had a baby for me few weeks ago, is it legal to add my name on the childs birth certificate with out my other husband finding out.
M on key 30 Mar 2017
Can my name be used or placed on a birth certificate as the father of a child without my consent or knowledge and how would l go about having it legally removed
LawAndParents Editor 29 Mar 2017
He can do this but you should challenge this as it's no way for a spouse to behave. Speak to your health visitor and midwife to get some support and advice on this.
LawAndParents Editor 29 Mar 2017
You will need to apply for a court order. They may listen to all the evidence you have and then order a DNA test. If this proves positive then they can order that a your name is placed on the birth certificate.
Meme 28 Mar 2017
My husband and I haven't agreed on our baby name yet . He is being really funny and wouldn't let me have a part in choosing a name . I feel so nervous as he shared this with all the family and all the names he chose are backdated to me . Does he have the right to choose the name and register it without my consent . Thanks
Dave 27 Mar 2017
My ex got pregnant and we split up. She got back with her ex when she was pregnant. Baby born she refused me access and wouldnt put my name on birth certificate. Left it blank. I asked for dna and have been told she swabbed her own mouth instead of babies so get negative results. At 9 months she put her new partners name on birth certificate as he paid her, has money job etc. And changed babies last name to her boyfriends name. I have missed out on 2 years of my childs life. Who do i report her to and get my name on certificate instead of her boyfriends
LawAndParents Editor 22 Mar 2017
No this isn't the case. You would be able to prove that he wasn't the biological father if necessary.
confusedftm 20 Mar 2017
My husband and I separated last year and I am now expecting a baby by someone else. I haven't yet got divorced as I cant file as weve not been separated 2 years and hes too lazy to do it even though he could on account of my adultry (although we were already separated when I started dating it still counts apparently) My friend has scared me a bit by saying if I dont get divorced my husband might be able to claim rights to my child even though hes not the father. Is that right? It seems like it would be rediculous especially as the actual father is very involved.
Nan 17 Mar 2017
My son who is 17 and his 15 year old girlfriend have just had a baby. Her family are pushing him out. Can she register baby and not put him on birth certificate.
Jamie 7 Mar 2017
I have a question regarding my twins and my ex wife. I was married in 2003 in las vegas, my ex wife fell pregnant whilst on our honeymoon in march 2003, my twins were born in november. Just prior to them being born i left the relationship due to her violence and mental problems. When she registered our children in the registry office she failed to put me on the birth certificate.. But obviously we were married. I'm curious to know after all this time, after being told for 13 years that i have no rights as i'm not on the birth certificate, has she done anything illegal? As we were married, surely she should have declared she was? Seems to me she has lied and left me off the documents, thus not giving me any rights? Confused! Please help. Thanks
DSG 6 Mar 2017
Hi I have a son who is 13months old WE were due to go and register him on a Monday ,his mother decided of her own back to do this whilst I was at work and when I got home she told me she had registered our son , her reason being that we had not been getting along so well and she didn't want me to have any Parentel rights , we have been On and off for a while never any violence , she has told me I can have my name on the birth certificate when he is almost 16 this is killing me inside , also she has stated that if she meets someone and gets married my son will be given her new partners name . She knew who the father was so she has lied to the registrar stating that she didn't k ow the father where do I stand legally and what can I do to get my name on the certificate ?
LawAndParents Editor 24 Feb 2017
If the mother refuses to allow you to have your name included on the birth certificate, you can still apply to the courts to have it added. They will order a paternity test to confirm you are the natural father and will then order a re-register of the birth with your name included as the father.
LawAndParents Editor 22 Feb 2017
Asking the mother is the simplest way to do this. If she refuses, then you may need to apply to the courts.
LawAndParents Editor 22 Feb 2017
It's your choice, but he can insist that his name is included (if necessary via the courts).
andy 21 Feb 2017
hi all, I am really worried I have bee seeing my partner for nearly a year now and she is having are baby of 16 weeks, she is still married to her ex so has is surname. she is going through a bad time and is confused on what she want in life and may want to be back with her ex, really bad time for me. we are now not to together, but are still really close. I am worried when the baby is born and we will sign the birth certificate. the baby will have her surname which is his, I really want my surname on the BC as I want to be a part f my baby life, it really worries me. can anybody help and give me some advice please
Anthony 20 Feb 2017
I want to get my name on my son's birth certificate he is over 1 years old what I'd the best way to do get this done
Lily 19 Feb 2017
I left my husband when I was 3 months pregnant as he physically attacked me. He was charged with common assault. I do not wish him to be involved in our child's life conceived through IVF as I he presents high risks to me and the child. Please advise me if I have to put his name on the child's birth certificate? We are still legally married but we have separated.
LawAndParents Editor 16 Feb 2017
She can give the child whateve surname she chooses. However, she cannot put the father's name as the biological father on the birth certificate unless he consents to it.
Kyte 15 Feb 2017
Can a mother give her child the surname of its father without his permission and consent and without him being present at the registration?
Charlie 11 Feb 2017
if it is proved through a d.n.a test that my ex partner is not my sons father. How do i stand on taking his name off of the birth certificate? He is taking me through court and i want it proved that he is not the dad!
Lj 11 Feb 2017
Why is it fraud to put another mans name on the cert? What if this said man has done much more for the unborn child than the bio dad, what if the bio dad doesn't want contact with the child? The child is left without a father on their birth certificate.
ajeds 10 Feb 2017
My granddaughter was registered behind my son's back not putting his name on the birth certificate even though he wanted to be on it and for the baby to have his surname. Is this illegal?
LawAndParents Editor 9 Feb 2017
You can give child any name you like when you register its birth. The birth certificate will contain the details of both parents and their surnames too (assuming the father consented to his name being on).
lucy88 8 Feb 2017
My partners ex (the mother of his child) registered his daughter with a surname which is not his or even her legal surname is this allowed?
Jonoupsetdaddy2be 2 Feb 2017
Im looking for some advice regarding. My ex I came home from Wales today to find my fiance of 4years. Has left she's due to drop on the 2nd of april I came home to find almost everything gone from the house including the baby stuff I bought washing machine tumble dryer cloths etc so it's not just a spat it's been planned for months. The thing is I have done nothing but support her all the way through at 22weeks she was deciding on an abortion we talked and she didn't go through with it now... She's using it as a weapon trying to say I'm forcing her to have a baby but at the same time getting her Manipulative sister to message me saying that I'll only be allowed supervised contact I have been there for her from the start which is why I'm so confused about the whole situation we been going on really well then all of a sudden gone *poof* how do I go about the birth certificate etc even though baby ain't born yet I feel like she's kidnapped my unborn child and there's nothing I can do PLEASE shed some light thanks
Nana p 2 Feb 2017
Can my daughter in law register my grandson without my son been present.and can she register the baby in my sons surname
Kath 17 Jan 2017
Hi can a women put her ex husbands name on a birth certificate even though the child isnt his
LawAndParents Editor 11 Jan 2017
In general a mother (with parental responsbility) can call her child whatever name she chooses as long as any other parties with parental responsibility agree. She cannot name him as the father on the birth certificate of course.
Julie 10 Jan 2017
Can a mother give her child the surname of another man ( not the biological father ) without his consent ?
Lilmiss 14 Dec 2016
Can a "fathers" name be added to a birth certificate without his knowledge or without him being present?
LawAndParents Editor 14 Dec 2016
No - it is fraud to put the name of anyone except the biological father on the birth certifcate. It can be left blank though.
Winniesearch 14 Dec 2016
If a woman is married in UK, does she have to have her husband's name on birth certificate of her child if he is not the biological father?
LawAndParents Editor 12 Dec 2016
Your new partner can apply to the court for parental responsibility. If your ex is not on the birth certificate you should not need his consent to change your daughter's name.
Hemmi33 11 Dec 2016
I have a 4 year old daughter who has my surname, my ex partner (not married) left me whilst I was pregnant and has only seen her a few times. He isn't on her birth certificate (his choice) I'm with a new partner now and I'm expecting a baby with him. My daughter sees him as her Daddy and we'd like to make this official. We would all like the same surname and for him to have PR for both of our children. Does he apply to adopt her? Do we change her name by deed pole? We'd like to get married but this won't be happening for a year or so yet. Thank you
hewie 1 Dec 2016
My son is now 5 months old, his father decided to go to the dentist rather than be with me when i went into labour, he saw his son 6 hrs later. When it came to register our son I told him that if he wanted his surname on the baby's birth certificate he would have to be there at the registry office. To my utter surprise he turned up, so my son has his fathers surname, the baby's father and I are not together and never will be. I have asked my baby's father repeatedly if he would like to meet somewhere and get to know his son, I have offered to bring the baby to his house which would take me at least 2 hrs to get to on public transport but he turned the offer down, I have no interest in him at all, I though I was doing the right 'thing' for my son wanting him to have contact with his dad. I have received numerous text messages from my ex now stating that he doesn't want anything to do his son. I now want to remove my exes surname from my sons birth certificate so my son has the same surname as his mum & big sister (I have a daughter aged 15 who would be delighted to have her baby brother with the same surname as her) Can i have my baby's father's surname removed from his birth certificate, if yes how would I go about it Yours Sincerely Stephanie Hughes
Juju 4 Nov 2016
Can a south african father register the birth of his child alone if the child was born from a foreign mother who gives the father the permission to do so
Lou 23 Oct 2016
My husband left me a month before I gave birth and my son is now 5 weeks old not seen him. Do I have to put his name on the birth certificate by law
Jess 21 Oct 2016
I'm a mother and I have a son and he's just over 2 now me and my girlfriend have been together over a year, my sons father hasn't had anything to do with my child and he's in prison, he isn't on the birthcertifate can I put my girlfriend on the birth certificate as she has raised him like her own, as we are a lesbian couple will I struggle with this?
Lea12 7 Oct 2016
Need some advice ASAP please I have 1born child and 1on the way same fathers but he doesn't want to know this child and we have split , am I still able to use his last name and NOT put him on the birth certificate so that his 2children still have the same name ??
LawAndParents Editor 21 Sep 2016
Yes, once the baby is born, he can apply to the courts to have his name added to the birth certificate. The courts will issue a declaration of parentage (usually following DNA test for proof).
abbey2016 19 Sep 2016
I am 30 weeks pregant an my ex is saying he is taking me court for full custody an saying he is going to the solicitors to get his name on the birth certificate can they make me put his name on the certificate if I don't want him on their
Delano 16 Sep 2016
I am building my family tree on Ancestry I had a daughter at 17, she was put up for adoption, prior to this I registered her birth and gave her my family name. Whilst searching, using the name I gave her, I have found out that she was also registered with her fathers name (not by me) was he within his rights to do so?
LawAndParents Editor 15 Sep 2016
If they were married at the time of birth or conception she can include the father's name. He will also be liable for maintenance payments.
LawAndParents Editor 15 Sep 2016
The law states that you must take 2 weeks of materntity leave after your baby is born (or 4 weeks if you work in a factory), so it would be unreasonable to expect an employer to pay for time off to register a child's birth after this period. Paternity leave is also granted so it's better to register the birth during the permitted leave period.
Jordygirl01 14 Sep 2016
Hi my partner split up with his ex wife when she was pregnant. She had the baby and put his name on the birth certificate. Can she do this ? Does she need his permission.
Madloo 14 Sep 2016
Is there any legal requirement for my employment to pay me for time off to register my child's birth?
Em 2 Sep 2016
can you put a child in his fathers last name without him being present
Sam 28 Aug 2016
My son was lied to and his daughter was registered behind his back but since baby has been. Ron he has been in her life constantly having her twice a week etc etc now cause it's definite him and baby's mum will never be getting back together she has said he isn't seeing his daughter anymore what can we do its destroying him
tmw517 23 Aug 2016
Hi. My partner is likely to be in prison when mu baby is born. We are not married. Will i be able to add his name to the certificate and then change the baby name at a layer date??
LawAndParents Editor 23 Aug 2016
No, you need to get the father's consent before adding his name to a birth certificate. If he refuses you can take it the courts.
vix 20 Aug 2016
Me and my husband split up when I was 28 weeks pregnant and said he doesn't want anything to do with the baby. Can I put him on the birth certificate without his permission??
pb 19 Aug 2016
Good evening, I would like to ask, if the father was not present at the registration of the child (birth certificate) but only gave details, does he has a 50% parental responsibility?
LawAndParents Editor 12 Aug 2016
Yes he can.
Mills 11 Aug 2016
I am registering my son in a few days the father and I are not together I am not wanting him on the birth certificate due to certain circumstances. If i am not denying he is the father and i am letting him see my son when supervised can he still apply for dna to be done and put on the certificate
LawAndParents Editor 8 Aug 2016
No, if you are the primary care, you can claim the Child Benefit and Child Tax Credts.
Lookingforpeaceofmin 8 Aug 2016
Hi, in the past 4 months me and the ex have split after a 7 year relationship. As you can imagine tempers were frayed. I (the father) have moved out with my son, into a local housing association property. I do not work as am primary carer. Now after a short time, my ex is demanding I give her half of my sons child benefit monthly, and a quarter of the child tax credits! She works 3/4 days a week, has our son 2/3 days a week. Please can you tell me is this legal and fair of her to demand this?
LawAndParents Editor 5 Aug 2016
You can get a form for him to sign and be witnessed by solicitor in prison.
Charl 4 Aug 2016
Im due at the end of august and my partner (babys father) is due in court soon and theres a high chance he will be going to prison before she arrives... We aren't married, but if he does get sent down is there a way of still getting his name on the birth certificate at registration? And if so how to do it?
Louise 27 Jul 2016
Hi there, after a long 2 year battle my divorce finally came through January this year. I had my baby 28th June and as I was in and out of hospital I was I was unable to change my name from my married name (Brock) back to my maiden name (Turner) until the 30th June. Problem I have is; I want to register my baby's birth, but at the time of birth I was legally 'Brock' and the deed poll paperwork has the 30th on. I really don't want the name Brock on her birth certificate as he is not a very nice man. Please help!
Tashy 24 Jul 2016
I'm married and I want my baby to have my married name but do I have to name my husband as the father to do that? Or can it be unknown ...the child isn't his and I don't want his name on it Will it have to be on there because we are married?
Adz 20 Jul 2016
Me and my ex have split up and she carrying my child, she has decided to name the child without talking to me about it. Can she do that or do we both have to agree on the name
sarah 17 Jul 2016
Hi I had a child an myself an partner did register office but I had an affair before child was born an he new paternity was 50/50. Before we registered her. An we are divorced now an him an child are wanting dna I've agreed to it. Tbh we should of done it before now. An we both at fault. He has been her dad over the years Is there a penalty for us putting him on when we were unsure??
Nikkie 7 Jul 2016
My ex-husband is registered my daughter when we got married saying that he his biological father even though he knew he wasn't is it a crime if so what is the repercussions
LawAndParents Editor 4 Jul 2016
No, she can give the child any name she chooses. The natural father's name can go on the birth certificate if he consents to it.
LawAndParents Editor 1 Jul 2016
It's not breaking the law. If your ex wants his name on the birthj certificate and you will not cooperate, he wil to take court action.
Steve 1 Jul 2016
My partner is due to give birth in December, even though she is separated from her ex they are still married, she has read that under British law the child will have to have his surname, is this true or can I, being the biological father, put my details down when it comes to registering our babies birth?
Janna 30 Jun 2016
My son father was in jail when I registered my son, he died 6 days after coming out of jail, how can I get him on my son birth certificate I don't want my child having father unknown on his birth cert thanks
Vernice 29 Jun 2016
My ex didn't turn up to register my so. Who he denies so I put father Unknown he's now saying I'm breaking the law is this true
LawAndParents Editor 20 Jun 2016
No, the father must give his consent before his name can be included on the birth certificate.
Harmony 18 Jun 2016
Can the farther be put on the birthcert if he hasnt attened to the appoinment even if not together and not married and didnt fill out the form?
LawAndParents Editor 17 Jun 2016
You'd need to be able to establish her whereabouts to do anything realistic about this. You could then apply to the courts to have your name recorded on the birth certificate if you're unsure whether this has been done or not.
Chock 15 Jun 2016
My wife gave birth but vanished off the face of the earth soon after the birth and took the baby with her, she did tell me she got the baby registered and put my name down but I don't believe her, what are the laws on this. I was not present and never filled in a form to say I wasn't able to attend.
Loosha 9 Jun 2016
My baby is due in September 2016 and my husband won't be in the country at the time of the babies arrival can I still register the fathers details on the babies birth certificate ? Do I need his ID or just his name place of birth etc ? Thank you
LawAndParents Editor 9 Jun 2016
When a mother isn’t married or in a civil partnership, her partner can be seen as the child’s second parent if both women have made a ‘parenthood agreement’. However, for both parents’ details to be recorded on the birth certificate, you must do one of the register the birth jointly.
emdev 8 Jun 2016
Myself and my same sex partner were lucky enough to conceive via sperm donor in January this year. we are not married or in a civil partnership but would still like to jointly register our son who is due in October. how can i make this possible?
LawAndParents Editor 8 Jun 2016
You will need the consent of your parents before you are allowed to be married. If you were clearly under 16 when you became married, there is a possibility your partner could be prosecuted for sexual activity with a person under the age of 16.
Chychy 7 Jun 2016
I am 16 and pregnant & the father is 20+ but we are not , not married. Will anything happen at the registry office because of the age difference?
LawAndParents Editor 3 Jun 2016
In the UK you can put the name of the biological father on the birth certificate (with his consent). You do not need consent from anyone else. You can also give your son whatever surname you choose.
Nat 2 Jun 2016
I am still married but seperated from my husband for nearly 14 years but not legally , I had a baby recently and want to register her on her biological dads surname , I need my husband to state that he is not the father but he does not want anything to do with all this , is there any other way without him being involved Many thanks
LawAndParents Editor 2 Jun 2016
You cannot put the father's details on the birth certificate without his consent but you can call your child any name you like, even if you choose to use someone else's name or even a made up name!
timo 1 Jun 2016
I have separated with my unborn baby's father and I would like my child to use his surname.I have his details name and surname only which his mom has given me can I get my child a certificate if I have only that information
Kirsty 30 May 2016
What if the father is married to the mother? Can he not register the birth instead of the mother, as is permitted usually?
All Serene 28 May 2016
I was interested to see your reply to Helen's friend and would very much like to understand what would prevent the father (who is married to the mother) from registering the birth without her consent. Looking at the information you, and the government websites, give about what documentation needs to be provided, to allow someone to register the birth, there doesn't appear to be anything which the father wouldn't be able to supply.
LawAndParents Editor 26 May 2016
Ask the prison management about this. Often someone from registry office will visit the prison to do the necessary. The father would not be able to register the birth without the consent of the mother.
Helen's Friend 23 May 2016
If a women gives birth while in a prison mother and baby unit how will the birth be registered? Can the father do this without the mother's agreement or will the mother and baby unit have a system to do it in place?
Lovely 22 May 2016
My baby turned 7 month today,but becouse my baby was ill after birth and my self not being well after my c- section I haven't still registered his birth. I have tried several times to register him but I couldn't get hold of a register, what should i do know ?
LGWilson 11 May 2016
Hi, I live in Scotland my husband lives in Africa due to visa issues can I still put him on the birth certificate even though he's not in the country?
LawAndParents Editor 29 Apr 2016
You would need the father's consent before you could do this. If he will not consent you can still apply to the courts for a declaration of parentage before you can have his name added.
Kc 28 Apr 2016
Can I put my husbands name down on my baby birth certificate even though its not his child. He knows its not his baby but wants his name to be on the babys birth certificate as the father.
Jo123 27 Apr 2016
Hi my daughter 6 has never been in contact with her father well not really she has seen him on 2 occasions in passing, she is at the stage of asking who her father is, he says he's not ready to be a father and if in the future she wanted to know who he is the that would be her choice and he would not push her away, when I registered my child I didn't put her fathers name on her birth certificate, once she is old enough she will receive her birth certificates and birth information with no father shown, can I add his name to her birth certificate or would he have to consent to this, I do receive maintenance from him for our child but that's it! So obviously he has acknowledged he is the father! Please help!
mandy 26 Apr 2016
i have been asked if a childs step dad can be added to the childs birth certificate. i said i had no idea and that i would find out as she dont have a computer or access the internet so can she add the step dad on the birth certificate?
LawAndParents Editor 25 Apr 2016
Your son can apply to the courts to have his name added to the birth certificate. The courts may order a DNA test to prove paternity before allowing this. Once on the birth certificate, he will be responsible for maintenance payments.
Cazzie 24 Apr 2016
HiMy son and his ex have a 6 week old little girl and my son has been to see her everyday and also paid the mother money towards the baby We found out recently that the mother has registered the baby and she didn't let my son know she was doing this and his name is not on the birth certificateHe is devastated to say the least Is he now under any obligation to pay her money or is there any way he can have his name put on the birth certificate.
zoey4696 1 Mar 2016
ive just found out im pregnant and my boyfriend might be going to prison is there any way when i have the baby he can sign the birth certificate while in prison
KB 24 Feb 2016
My partner is pregnant with my child and is due in May. However she is still married but has recently applied for a divorce from her ex. The baby will likely be born during this divorce process as I understand that it could take up to 6 months. So are there any legalities that I would need to be aware off, for example, will there be an issue with putting my name on the birth certificate.
Po 15 Feb 2016
What does a birth cert mean? Can i use my last name for my baby , but Christsin her dads name? What one goes on passports and driver licence??
Kikio 30 Jan 2016
I am married with a man and we having a baby soon. We are toghether but I don't want his name on baby's certificate and he doesn't mind that. Can I not put his name on baby's certificate even we married?Is it possible??
LawAndParents Editor 22 Jan 2016
Your child's mother can apply to the courts to have your name added as the natural father to the birth certificate. The courts can order a DNA/paternity test if you refuse to acknowedge that you are the father.
Sah 21 Jan 2016
I was in a relatioship (it was an affair) she got pregnant. Our relatioship stopped but we still used to live together, she didn't wanted to move out and I couldn't afford a new place at that time. Anyway, when our daughter was birn, i wanted to register on my name but she didn't want to. I told her many times that i want to be listes as her father but she kept saying no.When the baby was 1 month old, we had a fight and accused me that i wanted to kill the baby, git arrested and had a case in court. Everyone believed her and not me, i never harmed the baby. Also she accused me that i hit her several times in the past months. I had to sleep in the van and at friends until i found a place where to stay. I had a court order not to talk to her but she kept calling and sending msgs then she reported me again that i am threatening her, and again got arrested and phones confiscated. After 2 months she left the Uk and moved back to our country with the baby. Now after almost 1 year she came back to the Uk and wants to register her daughter on my name, but now I am saying no, I don't want to cause she had the chance and after all the trouble that i passed because of her lies. What does the law say about this. Can i refuse to register the child on my name? Sorry it is long
Erika bibi 17 Jan 2016
I had my daughter 4 years ago she isn't register to have a father her father wasn't there to sign the birth certificate and haven't seen him for like 6 years i was wondering if it was ok that my daughter isn't still register as to have a father she only has me her mother but no father im hoping that i dont need to go to court or anything like that because of my daughter not register to have a father.
Paula 13 Jan 2016
Hi. I'm 13 weeks pregnant and getting divorced in April. The baby isn't my husbands (he knows about it and it wasn't an affair). Baby is due in July 3 months after my divorce. The question is that can I register my current partner as a child's father and give a baby my current partners surname?
Chris 9 Jan 2016
Can you and your sister, put your sister name on your child's birth certificate while in the hospital without the hospital knowledge?
Butterfly 7 Jan 2016
6.5 years ago my first child was born we both signed the birth certificate, her father is now an ex for for the last 4 years. He has for the last 2 years stopped seeing his daughter. He in the last year married someone, this has triggered him saying that he is not 100% the father. He says in an application for court proceedings he has never been 100%. Is it illegal to sighn a birth certificate knowing your not 100% the father? He is 100% the father incase you are wondering.
Amaris 7 Jan 2016
Hey I am in a relationship with a transgender woman and just after she started hormones erm decided that we wanted to try and conceive to have a child who was biologically both ours. We were successful and we have a 3 (nearly 4 year old little boy) last year she applied and was granted her GRC certificate and we are now looking to have her added to his Birth Certificate with the correct name and gender (I myself am currently the only parent shown on it as refused to have her down as something she wasn't and never will be)but there is not much information on how to do this or how much it will cost and the relevant department don't seem to answer their phones could anyone point me in correct direction? Thankyou for reading someone very confused!
Ceeceewallace 21 Dec 2015
Is it possible to get the father's name on the certificate if he is in prison? If so, how do I go about it?
LawAndParents Editor 14 Dec 2015
Both your names can be recorded on the birth certificate, if you either: Register the birth jointly Or one of you completes a Statutory Declaration of Parentage Or you have a document from the court (eg a court order) giving the second female parent parental responsibility.
Lizzie 14 Dec 2015
Me and my same sex partner are wanting to try for a baby we have been together 4 years can she be on the babies birth certificate or do we need to be married first?
LawAndParents Editor 8 Dec 2015
Only the mother can register the birth of a child so this would not have been possible.
fate 7 Dec 2015
My live in partners girlfriend use her name as a mother of my child in birth certificate what can I do to change this?
chelau 6 Dec 2015
I registered my daughter and did not have her father named on it for certain reasons .He is now threatening me with court actionand my question is................ Can I be forced to put my babies fathers name on her birth certificate\
Eraera 29 Nov 2015
Hi,just I wanted to aske a question?i am nearly 9 months preagnant and I am ilegal but my partner is British,if I regjister my son in my surname is any problem for hes passport he can get it or no,and also do I get anypaper for me as well if my partner protect us and if we don't claim any benefit,thank you!!
Jason 23 Nov 2015
My sons mother is being extremely awkward and refuses to put me on the birth certificate. I was out of the country when she registered him originally. As a father, what rights do I have for him? I am trying to be there as much as possible and even pay for his nursery fees. It seems nothing is set up in favour of the father, when all I want to do is be involved in every part of his life.
LawAndParents Editor 23 Nov 2015
Who is the natural father of the child? Was it your partner before she transgendered?
Tadpole 20 Nov 2015
My partner is transgendered, is it possible to legally register a women as the father of a baby in the UK, and would we need to wait to do this until she has her GRC? It would be meaningless to register her old name as she does not use it anymore.
LawAndParents Editor 19 Nov 2015
You can choose whatever name you like when you register your child.
Jo 18 Nov 2015
We have found out my daughters ex hasn't put his full name down when they registered there daughters birth
LawAndParents Editor 16 Nov 2015
You cannot remove the father's name without his consent unless you apply for a court order.
Popsie 16 Nov 2015
Hi I was just curious if an unmarried mother and father can register their child under a different last name to either of theirs?
Nikki 14 Nov 2015
myn son father is an illegal he push me to put his name on the burtcertificate an now I won myn son to have an pasport . how can I take his name from the burthcertificate?
Jen 13 Nov 2015
Hi I have a 15 year old daughter is is due any time. She is still on and off with baby's dad who is also 15. My husband has told her he doesn't want her to put the baby's surname as his dad's but asked her to put ours and hers on instead.. I thought he was messing at first but he's made it quiet clear that he will not be nice if she calls it after his dad. I'm just wonder with her being 15 and we will have to be gaurdians will we have a right to not want to use the dads surname or if she has the mother still has to decide on its surname. Thank you
Bundleofjoy 10 Nov 2015
If a mother registers a baby, and knowingly knows who the father is and doesn't invite him to come along to register, is she breaking any laws ? If she is doing this for the safety of her child , eg father is a drug user, alcoholic, aggressive, criminal record. Also is she able to call the baby by the fathers surname yet not register the fathers name. Eg mother : Vicky Louise Platt , Father: (Blank) Baby: Pat Thomas Tomlinson Thanking you in Advance
QB 7 Nov 2015
My ex partner is denying his unborn baby..we are not married can I still register the baby in his surname with out him attending or signing the birth
LawAndParents Editor 27 Oct 2015
No. The only father whose name can be on the birth certificate is the biological one.
Baby 27 Oct 2015
I'm almost due to have my baby but her father is in prison. Is it possible to register her with his surname and him on the birth certificate without him being there?
Brokenhearteddaddy 24 Oct 2015
My wife had an affair, when she came back she was pregnant, we was still married and we both decided to carry on the pregnancy few months later she gave birth which I was present for, we both agreed to have my name put on his birth certificate as I'm him father, now for the twist the guy she had an affair with has shown up and is demanding a DNA if this is proven right and he is the biological sperm donor what are my rights to the child? And can he demand access? Can I potential lose my son? Me and my wife have separated now but was married when he was born. It's giving me sleepless nights worrying about losing my son to a guy she had an affair with. Please help.
query 23 Oct 2015
Excellent article and very helpful. If a unmarried single woman registers a birth alone (male is not involved) then many years later gets into a serious relationship with a new man who is raising the child. Is she able to re-register the birth with her partner as the father?
ria 15 Oct 2015
hi my child father made me do a dna through Csa he don't want anything to do with our son but I think it my son right to have his father on the birth certificate he refusing to do it can I force him to do it through courts
Benjamin 1 Oct 2015
I have no emotional attachment/interest, in a baby I may have fathered. The babies mother believed the father to be her current partner, however DNA testing has proven otherwise. He is named on the birth certificate as the babies father, though. Am I still, in any way, legally obliged to participate/contribute to the child's life?
LawAndParents Editor 30 Sep 2015
If your ex will consent, you can re-register the birth together to have your name added using this form . If she does not agree, then you need to apply to the courts for a declaration of parentage; you can download the application form and guidance notes here.
Burts 29 Sep 2015
Hi my ex and I recently had a boy 2 week ago I am yet to meet him as this is her choice, I think she has registered him without my consent and that leaves. E with no rights, what is this statuary agreement of parentage? What forms do I need to take her to court for change of birth cert and name change asap!
LawAndParents Editor 25 Sep 2015
Did his mother know that her partner was already married? If not, then he was a bigamist. However if the birth certificate says "partner" rather than "spouse" then it's not really an issue. Sorry there's not really enough information for us to comment sensibly on this
jillydabrat 24 Sep 2015
On doing my husband's family tree we have found out that his parents were never married at the time of his birth. His father had been married before and, though my husband was born in 1965, a Decree Absolute was granted in his father's absence in 1984, almost 20 years after his birth. What concerns us is that his mother filled out his birth certificate as his father's wife. Is this not illegal? There was no way she could be married to the father unless he committed bigamy. Can someone let us know if his mother broke the law regarding this please
LawAndParents Editor 21 Sep 2015
There are lots of private DNA testing organisations who can do an "official" test for you. As for the birth certificate, you find out details at the register office where the baby was registered. She will not have been allowed to name you on the certificate without your presence/consent.
Nay 18 Sep 2015
Hi there, my ex partner had a baby 2 weeks ago, she has claimed it is mine but unfortunately I have reasonable doubts, I have requested that we do a home test dna! But she has said that she doesn't want to do an unprofessional home test? What other options is there? And also if she has registered the baby without me knowing and put father as unknown is there anyway I can find out? Thanks for your help in advance? :)
kubwakuku 11 Sep 2015
Hello, please can you answer me the following. If a woman is unmarried and has two children 1998 and 1990 Can she add the fathers name to the birth certificate or must he be there to sign? Regards
LawAndParents Editor 7 Sep 2015
Unfortunately not, unless he can appeal to his girlfriend's better nature and get her to consent (in which case they can apply to have his name added with their joint consent - and no court proceedings).
sammi 6 Sep 2015
my 17 year old son and his 16 uear old girlfriend have just had a baby and her mother has made her daughter register the baby without the knowledge of my sopn meaning my son isnt on the birth certificate which is causing a lot of strain on there relationship and breaking my sons heart cause even though he is actively involved in his daughters life now if him and his girlfriend break up there is nothing stopping her from stopping my son seeing his daughter, is there anyway my son can have his name put on the birth certificate without having to go through courts. ?
LawAndParents Editor 3 Sep 2015
NO...he would need to present.
klp1990 2 Sep 2015
Can I register baby and fathers name on certificate even if he's not there, I no he'd need to sign but can I put his name there before he does this
Nikki 26 Aug 2015
My son and ex partner had a little girl this April .. His ex had decided to put her new partner on the birth cerft ... They both are not allowing my son or any of his family including myself ( nanna) it's killing us we are heartbroken it's like a death in our family we are not even allowed to talk to her about the baby ... They also have a son together who we all see every weekend and us the grandparents take away for holis ... I feel guilty that our granddaughter not involved in any of this !! We were looking after our grandson from day one
LawAndParents Editor 26 Aug 2015
Here is a link to the relevant form, you must have a legally approved person present to witness the signature/consent though.
LawAndParents Editor 26 Aug 2015
Yes, if your mother applies to the courts for a name change, they will request DNA evidence.
LawAndParents Editor 25 Aug 2015
If he wants to have some involvement in the child's life, he should consent to his name being added.
thumbelina 24 Aug 2015
If my partner is in prison what is the special form called and how do I get one? I dont want to go through a solicitor because of the cost
Familygirl75 23 Aug 2015
My Dad who bought me up has very recently passed away. His brother whom my mom was married to at the time of my birth is detailed as my father on my birth certificate. But my mom knows that the man who bought me up is my biological father and the birth record is wrong. She tried to change my birth record at time of their divorce in 1979 without success. What can I do to change this now? I have my moms support and should be able to track down my uncle (who is recorded as my father). It is still possible to obtain dna of needed. Any advice much appreciated
moo 23 Aug 2015
My partner had a child with someone 18 months ago she wouldn't put him on birth certificate he's had no contact as she left the country for a while now she's back and says he can go on it now what should my partner do many thanks
Bunny1234 20 Aug 2015
I knowingly put the wrong father on the birth certificate it was something I didn't think through. My ex partner is manipulative and controlling and is threating to take my child away from me. I need to prove that he is not there biological parent. Where do I start
Sarah 1 Aug 2015
My son is to become a father not a choice he would have made for himself however he is fully accepting of his responsibility. The mother to the child (they are not together)is becoming very controlling and is already stating what she will and will not allow my son to be involved in my son is afraid that she will register the birth without his knowledge therefore denying him parental responsibility can he prevent her from doing this?
LawAndParents Editor 29 Jul 2015
@Dee.The baby's father the father must be present at the registration in order for his details to be entered. If he is in prison then he can sign a special form in front of a sollicitorc which the you can take with you when registering the birth.
dee 28 Jul 2015
My partner is on a two & half year sentence our baby is due in December how do I get to have his name on the birth certificate.
Fatu 10 Jul 2015
I have a 10 years old boy I'm a Dutch he father was a allalym but he sign on the briht ceritificate wrong spelling now wen i aske to him correct it he won,t come so what can I fo
123laura 25 Jun 2015
Hello my child's father is on the birth certificate but hasn't had contact over a year how can I get his name taken off the birth certificate as we haven't see heard or even know is where abouts
LawAndParents Editor 25 Jun 2015
@tuila. Sorry do you mean you want to register your new partner as the natural father? Even though he isn't the natural father?
tuila 20 Jun 2015
i have 4 year old child with the boyfiend i had at the time, who left me when i told him im pregnant and left the country he never was interested in his son and we not in contact. he never was registered in my son birth certificate. i have married the other man 2 weeks ago. we want to be a family . what would happen if he would register as child natural father through re-registering the birth?
LawAndParents Editor 18 Jun 2015
@Suesue. To have the natural father's name added, you would need to gain his consent and apply via this form . If the father does not consent, you can still add his name but the courts would be likely to insist on a DNA test to prove he is the father.
LawAndParents Editor 16 Jun 2015
@Kize. Yes you need to re-register them. Here's how to do it.
LawAndParents Editor 16 Jun 2015
@Jossy. We really don't know we're sorry! It's a rare situation. We suggest you follow the advice from the GRO and then once you have some kind of documentation, seek further advice from the various authorities eg HMRC for tax credits, local authority for school place etc.
Suesue 13 Jun 2015
When I had my daughter nearly 10 years ago, her father and I were not in a good place and I took the decision to not have his name on the birth certificate. However, it says 'unknown' and I wondered if I could change that. The father now has no contact but I feel my daughter has a right to know who her dad is. I was very young at the time And took the advice that he shouldn't be on the certificate but I never wanted it to be stated as 'unknown'
LawAndParents Editor 12 Jun 2015
@Anything. No if you have a DNA test done for example, the father can still apply to the court with that information and have his name added to the birth certificate/gain parental responsibility.
Kizze 11 Jun 2015
Myself and my husband have two children 17 and 12 I want to know can my husband be added onto both their birth certificates now and them take his surname? as we were not married when they were born and both are registered in my name but he is their natural father...can I do this?
LawAndParents Editor 11 Jun 2015
@Alex. No this should not matter.
Jossy 11 Jun 2015
My brother was sole carer for his 4 year old son until his death last year. Prior to committing suicide, he asked me to look after his son for the weekend - but never returned. I have been looking after this boy for over a year now - his mother left the country shortly after his birth and has never been in contact with him. I have tried to trace his birth certificate but it seems he was never registered. I cannot get any school place for him, claim child benefit / tax credits for him without this. Is there anything else I can do? The GRO said I can make a declaration to a legal representative - but will this be sufficient evidence of his existence to get him a passport etc??
anything? 8 Jun 2015
Is there any legal document that exists to show a man is the father other than being named on a birth certificate? For complicated reasons I need to know if there is anything as I do not want them to have the legal rights that come with a birth certificate but would like to have a document that shows they are the father. Thanks. S
LawAndParents Editor 8 Jun 2015
@help. Unfortunately you will need to contact the man who you think is the actual father.
Alex 7 Jun 2015
When registering my daughter I put my middle and surname down but not my 1st name as I don't go by that have I done wrong
LawAndParents Editor 4 Jun 2015
@K9ing. What a tough position for you to be in. There's nothing really that you can do until the court case/cafcass report ended, although the lack of contact during that period will not help your situiation. Have you thought about writing a friendly letter/email to your ex wife telling her how much you love your son and how he needs to spend some time with his father. She may feel isolated knowing that you've moved on and have a happy 'family' environment for your son to be in that doesn't involve her. If you can find some way of assuring her that you are not taking your son's love away from her etc then she may be willing to give a little.
help! 3 Jun 2015
I stupidly put wrong father on birth certificate and cant take off without DNA test but cant find actual father or one thats on there so cant prove it... Help !!
K9ng 1 Jun 2015
I divorced from my ex on 2010, I have had regular contact since then with my now 7 year old son, I remarried in April 2014. Since then the mother has made things very difficult.Stopped contact december last year stating my son wanted to cut down contact time from 2 nights to 1 night. We went to court in February an order was put in place for contact,With a review to increase the length of contact when my son was ready to. 30th of March mother stated my son expressed he wanted to extend the length of contact between us. We took my son on holiday 1st April to 10th April had a great time.Went go-karting, bowling, cinema and many other activities. On the 15th of April the mother emailed stating my son no longer wanted contact at all even to the extent he called me and told me over the phone. This took us completely by surprise as he has a great time when he is with us. We feel he is being strongly manipulated by the mother.We went back to court today to be told it's adjourned pending a CAFCASS report,Next court date 21st of September obviously this is over 3 months away and damaging to our relationship, is there anything I can do in the mean time to regain contact.Any advice much appreciated.
andy 24 May 2015
I want to put my name on my daughters birth certificate. Im in contact with her now(no thought of mine) im in talks with her mother and get on well and keep in contact regulary. The only problem i have is getting to the place were my daughter was registered as im unable to travel there. Is there any way i can do this with out being there. I give my full permision to her mother to do this. Please help. Thankyou.
baby1 23 May 2015
I need help, I know someone who is 14 years old and could possibly be pregnant. If she chooses to keep the baby would the 16 year old father be able to go on the birth certificate or no? I need an answer now it's urgent
baby 23 May 2015
I need help, I know someone who is 14 years old and could possibly be pregnant. If she chooses to keep the baby would the 16 year old father be able to go on the birth certificate or no?
heretics 22 May 2015
See below, what could I do? Thanks
LawAndParents Editor 21 May 2015
@lolly. You need the father's permission to enter his name on the birth certificate. You can apply for a court order to do so and to claim any maintenance for the child etc in the future. The courts will insist on a DNA test from the father before granting your request.
Lolly 17 May 2015
My fiancé is currently away in prison for something he did befor we was together I then fell pregnant I am currently 30 weeks pregnant I'm 17 this is our 1st child I just don't want nothing going wrong as already have enough to deal with can I put his name on the birth certificate if he is not there if not how do I go about getting proof that he's the dad on a me and him know he is but how do I get proof of that sorry if this doesn't make sense ??
LawAndParents Editor 12 May 2015
@AL82. He can apply to the courts to have his name on the birth certificate. If he wants to be in your child's life then that's a good thing. He is probably referring to parental repsonsibility rather than 'control'. Take it as a positive thing that although he initially rejected the idea of being a parent, he now wants more involvement.
AL82 5 May 2015
Please help, The father of my daughter wanted nothing to do with me/us when I fell pregnant and actually begged me to terminate so I stopped contact. However he requested a paternity test when she was a month old. Now has seen her and is paying some money. It is going well but he now wants on the birth certificate because "I have more power than him" (quote). I'm happy for him to see her and facilitate this, but not ready to share 50% of rights yet. He abandoned us for so long, lives so far away, we were never married, he's only seen her 6 times & shes 4 months old and he cant structure a regular contact plan. I'm just not happy for him to influence & dictate the way I bring my daughter up as he's not a big part of our lives, I got on fine without him and don't need his money. I am trying to look at the best interests for my daughter and would always keep him in the loop. Do I have to or be forced to put him on the birth certificate just now as I know this will give him automatic PR. If he proves himself in time of course I will but just not too comfortable with it at the moment as he's really let us down before.
heretics 29 Apr 2015
He needs proof he is the father to be considered for a visa to visit. She's only 3, he's never met her. I would have to get the dec.of parentage and put him on the certificate, it has to be the actual document for visa purposes. He's been refused three times because he's from outside of the EU. I have to let him have the certificate, this worries me as family members of his could easily obtain a passport for my girl with this, in their country it's easy for a man to do this. I am scared that she could be taken. I can't visit due to having other children that I would not be able to take with me, the father will not permit this, and will not look after them for me to visit. There is also a very real possibility that if I enter the country, I would be held or at least my child would be held, according to the law there, as any male member of the family could object to her leaving due to the Islamic law. Is there anything else I could do to legally say he is the father but not put him on the certificate? Thank you
LawAndParents Editor 28 Apr 2015
@Kimberlee. No the father must give his permission before you can put him on the birth certificate.
LawAndParents Editor 28 Apr 2015
@heretics. Not that we can think of. What are your reasons for wanting him to be declared the legal father but not be on the birth certificate, which you will have in your keeping? Would your daughter prefer to have a father on her birth certificate?
kimberlee 23 Apr 2015
can i put my baby fathers name on the birth certificate without him being there?
heretics 23 Apr 2015
If the father is not on the birth certificate, is there way to legally declare he is the father without putting him on the certificate? He wants to apply for a visa and needs proof but the country he is in, I am scared of giving a birth certificate to him that Could be used to get a passport for our daughter without my knowledge, he could take her then, hope you understand and thanks for any help. So
LawAndParents Editor 21 Apr 2015
@greeney. The only way to do this would be via a declaration of parentage order via the courts.
greeney 19 Apr 2015
Hi, I know who my child's father is but he is refusing to go on the birth certificate, attend the registers with me or sign the declaration. Can I take him to court & get his name added that way? I don't want 'unknown' on it as this is not the case. help please?
LawAndParents Editor 13 Feb 2015
@Betty12. Yes the natural father does not have to be named on the birth certificate, but he apply to the courts to obtain PR and/or have his name added to the birth certificate. here's information on how to go about it.
LawAndParents Editor 13 Feb 2015
@Betty12. Yes the natural father does not have to be named on the birth certificate, but he apply to the courts to obtain PR and/or have his name added to the birth certificate.
LawAndParents Editor 12 Feb 2015
@khhn. Sorry we're not really sure what you're asking. Have you had another baby since coming to the UK?
LawAndParents Editor 12 Feb 2015
@Freddy - you can apply to the courts for a parental responsibility order if you are not already on the birth certificate. This will give you right to be involved in important elements of your son's life. If you cannot gain contact with your ex, then you may have to resort to the courts regarding the name change and contact/residency arrangements.
Betty12 10 Feb 2015
Hi looking to find out how my brother can get himself on his babies birth certificate. He plays an active part in babies life, was at the birth, but mother will not put him on it and she is now refusing to let him see baby, only on her terms. He is willing to pay for a DNA test, can the courts change it or what can he do? Thanks in advance
khhn 10 Feb 2015
Hello my baby is born in slvakia and registerd there but on registration certificate there only her name i needto reg my baby here uk on both of me and my wife name please tell me the procedure
Freddy 9 Feb 2015
I have 6 year old son who I have been really close with and love with all my heart. His mother is now married to a different guy and has changed my sons name to the same as her husbands my name was never on birth cerft and now I don't get my son much at all am so losed she is pushing me outta off my sons life and it so not fair as we r so close what can I do as she don't reply!
LawAndParents Editor 6 Feb 2015
@becks16. The father does not have to be named but the father can if he wants, apply to the courts to obtain PR and/or have his name added to the birth certificate. So if you feel he might do this you would not be gaining much by omitting his details.
becks16 2 Feb 2015
Hi I am registering my son in the week Iknow the father of my son but dont want him to be on the birth certificate as this would give him parental rights and he dont see his other children much am I breaking the law if I only put my name down thanks
Susie 22 Jan 2015
Hi looking for help from some one my son has had 2dna tests and both proved him to be the father, the mother of the child has registered the child in another mans name knowing my son is the father what are the laws on this please help
LawAndParents Editor 7 Jan 2015
@Debbier86. The birth certificate simply ask for the details (name, age, occupation etc) of the father and mother. It does not state whether they were married.
Debbier1986 5 Jan 2015
Hello I was wondering if anyone can help me. I am pregnant and my ex husband is the father. We split up and are hoping for a divorce but just not yet as of financial reasons. He wants to be named as the father but I don't want it to say we are married as hopefully will have a divorce shortly after the birth. Can anyone help please.
LawAndParents Editor 19 Dec 2014
@Dazza. You should apply to the General Register Office (GRO) to get your birth certificate changed, you can email them at: [email protected] or phone on: 0300 123 1837. If you are removing (the wrong father's) details, bear in mind they may ask your step father to take a DNA test to prove that he is not your natural father. As for your mother getting into trouble...the perjury act is the legislation which covers this. In the section relating to "false statements, as to births or deaths" however, there is a clause that says "a prosecution on indictment for an offence against this section shall not be commenced more than three years after the commission of the offence". So it's unlikely any action would be taken against them.
Dazza 18 Dec 2014
Thanks for the responce, so how do i change my fake birth certifcate so it has my real name on, Will my mum and husband get in trouble for there actions.
LawAndParents Editor 18 Dec 2014
@Saz. You'd have to go back to the courts to get the order enforced.
LawAndParents Editor 18 Dec 2014
@Dazza - yes this is illegal - only the natural father can be on the birth certificate. Your mother's husband may have signed to say he was your natural father at the time (falsely).
Saz 17 Dec 2014
Please can you tell me what happens if a court order to put father's name on birth certificate is not followed through
Dazza 17 Dec 2014
Hi on my first birth certifcate it has father unknown, But when my mum married I was 4, she put her husband who is not my father on a new birth certifcate saying he is my father, 1) is it against the law to do this 2) how do i get it corrected Many thanks.
Olliejwr 16 Dec 2014
Hi there me and my partner split and we have a 7month old son. Unfortunately she is stopping me from seeing him I'm registered on the birth certificate,we were never married. Just curious as to what my rights are and how i would go about getting these enforced
LawAndParents Editor 16 Dec 2014
@bird. No you'd need your ex's consent before you can change your child's name.
bird 13 Dec 2014
Hi there recently split from my partner we was not married I was first name on his birthcertficut can I have name removed from the certificate as he has not helped towards his child what rights have my self and child got he has threatens to take him away
LawAndParents Editor 12 Nov 2014
@sammy. Not sure what your question is? Do you not want your son to find out that your ex is not his father?
sammy 10 Nov 2014
my ex husband knows hes not the father off my baby when we first meet i was 6 months pregant now the boy is 14 yrs old and still lives with his father .. but his new wife doesnt like my son so shes making him do a dna test which is odd knowing hes knows hes not .any thing to hurt my son ... what can i do hes never payed child support he gets full payment like child tax credits child benifit etc for him .. what can i do im at wits end
Jonah1950 17 Feb 2014
My son was in a relationship with a young lady who wanted to have a second child (she already had one child from as previous relationship), as he already has 2 children from a previous marriage my son said he did not wish to have any more children. She ignored his decision and stopped taking precautions and became pregnant at which point the split up. She then started a new relationship (this may have been in progress before she became pregnant. My son is being chased by the CSA for money owing and they have threatened to take the money directly from his salary. In all communications the SLA have maintained that they have proof he is the father and have indicated he is on the Birth Certificate. My son did not register the birth so presumably would not appear on the Certificate, further he has written (Facebook communication) from the ex partner confirming he is not the father but the CSA will not accept this. I understand that the CSA have only had one contact with the ex partner and that was when she first contacted them claiming my son is the father. He has also heard that his ex partners new husband has adopted the child which I didn't think was legal without the 'registered fathers' permission? He is now at his wits end as they say he has outstanding CSA 'debts' of nearly £10k. He is in a low paid job so cannot afford legal representation. Can you assist with any advice?
gran73 1 Jan 2014
I have found out my son's stepdaughter not adopted / named changed legally by him has had 4 illegitimate children all by different fathers, she registered them using my /our surname as her maiden name this was 1996,1999,2000,2003. I only discovered this by accident when researching family tree for our only grandson whose father our youngest son died 2007 .I have no contact with my eldest son only briefly in 2007 he and his wife had denied me any contact with my/his 2 daughter now adults I and my husband have both come from law abiding hard working families. What can I do to have these illegal births registered corrected/ or sorted
Haragyrgen 17 Nov 2013
Hi, I was never present at my ex's birth of her child which she states is mine, neither was I present at the signing of the birth certificate. My question is seeing as we split in up July 2006, 7 weeks in to her pregnancy and never having contact any time after that, can she still put my name on the birth certificate without actually knowing if the child is mine or sign the certificate without me actually being there???. I always thought you had to have both parents present. Any help would be great thanks
Dal 14 Sep 2013
Could you help me iv had a DNA test done and I am the father but my ex won't let me be on the birth certificate but she keeps getting in to trouble with the police I am sceared that my child will end up in care . Iv sat her down and ask her to put me on and she just keeps saying no . i dont want to go to court as she says she will stop me from seeing the child :/ what should I do
CAZ 4 Sep 2013
hi my sons girlfriend has just had a baby and she is not putting his name on the birth certificate although she says the baby is his and he belives it to be his what can he do thanks
Adam 26 Aug 2012
Hi me and my ex had a little girl over a year ago. Things were hard when we split and now I am wanting to get a written agreement made so it's all sorted out and we no were we both stand . But now I have found out that I'm not on birth certificate is this a problem and if it is how do I sort it out because when I ask to be put on it time after time it's like I never asked so is it possible to do it your self?
Connie 14 Jun 2012
My son had a baby with his wifes sister. He signed the birth certificate. Child protective services took the baby along with his brother and sister. Child protective services brought the children to me.(Grandma). They said they would assist me through a program called the Kinship program. I did not know what to ask for in help and they was not very helpful. I decided to get government assistance for the children and they did DNA testing on the kids and the fathers. Turned out my son was not the father but still claims the child. I want legal custody of my grandson and child protective services tells me I have no rights to him. Because of the DNA test. He is 1 and has been with me and my family since birth. His brother and sister however are 5 and 3. When the casemanager brought me the children she said "you can do what you want with the kids he is your grandson". Well after waiting a couple of months for Child protective services to find family members for the brother and sister and having no help from the Kinship program is when I went for assistance. The family members of the two older babies was assisting me in watching the kids. I had no idea of the history of the case that was open and no history of the family members. But the kids seemed very happy with them. Well this went on and on. I started to get worried about the kids being with the other family members and I decided that I could not take on the three children. But I do want my grandson and we can visit the other babies. So Child protective services picked up the three kids because they would not just take the two older kids without my grandson and let us visit. They said depending on the DNA would determine were he would go. The DNA results came back on May 12, 2012 and I still have not seen them. I do have the Birth Certificate of my grandson and I want to go get him what can I do?
OAP41 17 May 2012
My mother, some 71years ago, was registered on the birth certificate as married to my father using the title of 'Mrs' and his surname. However, they were not married, indeed at he time he was married, but separated, to someone else. Neither had she changed her name by deed poll or submitted her maiden name as required. I,of course, inherited my father's surname. Notwithstanding the passage of time that has elapsed and that I only found this out fairly recently, I would be interested to know what the legal position is.
T-Bags83 1 Jul 2011
I am pregnant to a man who does not want me to have our baby. I would like him to be on the birth certificate, but am not sure he will come to do it. Where do I stand with this? Can I still name him? As I thought I had read somewhere that I can name the father then the registrar will contact him to sign somthing to agree. Is this correct? Thanks
polly 5 Jun 2011
my daughter had a baby by a man who she is not married to, she wants his name on the birth certificate & he will go with her to register the baby, does the baby HAVE to have his name ? or can she (the baby) have my daughter's surname ?
joff 25 May 2011
I had a daughter with my ex girlfriend 5 years ago and without going in to it too much,it took me two years to see my daughter and things are good now,however I found out I am not down as father. I want to and have spoke to the mother about this but been brushed off time after time. I was wondering how can I go about this myself as I am hitting my head againest a wall talking to the mother. How important is it to have both parents diwn
phil21griff 30 Apr 2011
My wife has had an affair and is now pregnant we dont know who the father is we have now seperated and we have joint custody of our 4 children can she name the baby under the other man's surname or will she have to name him under my surname as we are still married?
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