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Family Scenario

Your Rights

You used to see them every day. You saw them take their first steps and taught them how to ride a bicycle without stabilisers. Now you don't know if you'll see them from one week to the next. You split up with your partner, not your children. Just where do you stand legally if you're separated?

Splitting up is never easy but if you have children it can be even harder. Who gets custody and how often can you see them? Separations are only a small part of the legal minefield parents can face. Find out what your rights are here, from choosing DNA testing for paternity to dealing with the Child Support Agency.

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What about the children?
Find out what UK law says about where children should live after divorce.

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Cohabitation contracts
Putting the rights of couples living together into writing.

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DNA paternity testing
Considering DNA testing for paternity? Read this first…

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How to separate
The tough decisions don't end when you decide to split up…

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Child support
Who pays? Everything you'll need to know about the child support agency.

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Abduction
When breaking up drives a parent to steal their own children.

Ask a Lawyer
Read the advice of our Family Lawyer on your child residence and contact questions.

Q&A: paternity test
'Can the courts order a paternity test?'

Q&A: unmarried father
'My ex is taking our baby away. What can I do?'

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