LGBT family law
Get tailored legal advice and up-to-date information regarding same-sex couples and children. Seek support from Brockbanks Solicitors by giving us a call or visiting any of our offices in Cumbria, including Whitehaven, Cockermouth and Keswick.
Supporting the wellbeing of you and your little ones
The law surrounding same-sex parents can be complicated, which is why working with a team like Brockbanks Solicitors can make all the difference. We encourage couples to seek full legal advice when considering raising a child, so that parents can ensure that they’re fully aware of their legal rights, whilst considering what’s best for the child/children.
You will need to consider factors like who will have parental responsibility, the role that a child’s biological parents will play, and the legal impact of adoption. As specialists in LGBT family law, these are considerations we can support with, in addition to legal conditions such as the rights of same-sex female couples compared with those of same-sex male couples. Simply get in touch with our team to discuss your issue.
Working towards resolutions with the Courts
A separation between LGBT parents can affect children in a number of different ways. However, to mitigate this, we’ll help ensure arrangements and issues in relation to your children are resolved sensibly and with sensitivity. Clients often assume they’ll need to attend court for disagreements around childcare arrangements however, wherever possible, we’ll look to provide an amicable solution that works for all parties involved, outside of the courtroom.
Assistance with a range of matters
We are able to provide tailored advice on a full range of LGBT family law matters:
Parental responsibility
Adoption
Male same-sex couples and parental rights
Female same-sex couples and parental rights
Whatever your circumstances, we are here to support and help you make the right decisions when it comes to your children and future.Contact us
Frequently asked questions
Do same-sex parents have the same legal rights as other parents?
The law around same-sex parents can be more complicated, particularly when it comes to who has parental responsibility and the role of a child’s biological parents. That is exactly why getting tailored advice early matters so much. At Brockbanks Solicitors, we specialise in LGBT family law and help you understand your rights clearly before you make important decisions.
What is parental responsibility for same-sex couples?
Parental responsibility is the legal authority to make important decisions about a child’s upbringing, and how it is acquired can depend on your circumstances, including how the child was conceived and whether you are married or in a civil partnership. Because the rules vary, it is worth confirming where you stand. Our team can talk you through your position and help you secure parental responsibility where needed.
We're planning to have a child as a same-sex couple — what should we consider legally?
It helps to think early about who will have parental responsibility, the role any biological parents will play, and the legal impact of adoption. Getting full advice before you start means you go in with your rights and your child’s interests clearly in mind. At Brockbanks Solicitors, we support same-sex couples through exactly these considerations.
What happens to arrangements for our children if we separate?
As with any separation, the focus is on resolving arrangements for your children sensibly and with sensitivity, always centred on what is best for them. Many couples assume they will need to go to court, but that is often not the case. Wherever possible, we’ll help you reach an amicable solution that works for everyone, outside the courtroom.
Is the law different for female and male same-sex couples?
Yes — the legal position can differ between female and male same-sex couples, particularly around parental rights and how parenthood is established. These distinctions can be confusing, which is why specialist advice is so valuable. Our family law team can explain how the rules apply to your specific situation.
Can you help same-sex couples with adoption?
Yes — adoption is one of the areas we advise on as part of our LGBT family law service, alongside parental responsibility and parental rights. We’ll help you understand the process and make the right decisions for your family. Whatever your circumstances, our team is here to support you with sensitivity and care.
Contact the experts in LGBT family law
Call our Whitehaven office on
01946 692194 or find your local practice, dotted across Cumbria.