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What issues do we need to consider in a Co-Parenting Agreement?

An important issue to consider is who will be named on the birth certificate as this can affect whether the father has parental responsibility for the child.

You will need to think about where the child will live (this is known as ‘residence’) and how often they will see the other parent (this is known as ‘contact’).

If these issues cannot be agreed then you can apply to the court for a ‘contact or ‘residence’ order.

For further information see the free legal information section Relationships & Family Law on CompactLaw.co.uk

Most importantly you will need to agree on financial support for the child and this will include making wills to provide for the child should one parent die.

An issue that often arises for separated or divorced couples is what to do when one parent is offered a job in another part of the country or abroad or wishes to move because they have met a new partner.

You may need to revise your expectations about where the child will live.

It is important to think about these big issues before entering into any co-parenting arrangement.

You also need to ensure that you and the co-parent have the same parenting values and have discussed whether the donor will make future donations if you want a sibling for the child.

You should always seek legal advice before entering into any kind of written agreement.

You should also remember that such agreements are no legally binding although they are evidence of your intentions and are known as a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’.