What rights do I have as a father

[Adam2026]

Hi guys, I'm new to all this so apologies if creating a new thread was not the way to go ...

The wife and I are not getting along, heading toward a separation/divorce but my concern is our almost 5 month old baby boy.

It is my house, i am the sole bread winner, she has always been a stay at home Mum through her own choice, she is from abroad, all the bills I pay are in my name and so on.

The issue right now is she does not let me spend any time with my boy whilst living under the same roof, he always needs a feed or a nappy change or a sleep - anything to stop me holding/playing with him, yet he is on facetime to her Mum all day long and her father whenever they all want. My family is not really allowed to come round and if they do she makes for a very hostile environment. All this is just for context, but like I say she stops me spending any real QT with him, what are my rights in such a situation

[atticus]

Welcome to LB. I am sorry that you find yourself in this situation.

You have the right as father to have contact with your child. The circumstances you describe indicate that you have 'parental responsibility' under the Children Act 1989. If nothing can be agreed with the mother, you have the right to go to Court for what is known as a Child Arrangements Order.

First of all, you are required to attempt mediation with the mother. Try to find a family mediation service near you.

You may also find this helpful - The Family Court without a lawyer - book and videos by Lucy Reed KC http://www.nofamilylawyer.co.uk/