The child lives with whoever has custody – usually the mum. If you can’t agree get legal help. Men can get custody if it’s considered in the child’s best interests. Get advice.
Disputing whether it’s really your child? You can get a paternity test. But only do it if you really need to and you intend to be involved. Get advice.
You can take 2 weeks’ paid paternity leave (and 6 more unpaid) to help with baby and do some bonding.
You must give work 15 weeks’ warning. They should let you work more flexibly, too.
Ask your boss or Citizens Advice. See Useful Contacts.
The age of consent for sex is 16. Prosecutions for having sex with someone under this age are rare, as long as both people consented and there is no evidence of exploitation (taking advantage) or a large age difference. Get advice.
Get advice about these from a solicitor or CAB (it’s usually free). ‘Families Need Fathers’ have more information.
Schools should help you get advice and counselling and give you time off for appointments.
