Assumption: "Having equal parental responsibility means I have the right to change where my child lives."

Court Reality

Having equal parental responsibility means both parents have the legal right to be involved in their child's upbringing. It does not automatically determine where a child lives or what happens if one parent decides to change the arrangements without agreement. If living arrangements change and the other parent disputes it, the court's starting point is the welfare of the child — including the importance of stability and existing routine. Whether the new arrangement is upheld or the court moves to restore the previous position depends entirely on the evidence. Clear, documented welfare concerns can support the change. The absence of them makes it harder to justify. Parental responsibility is a framework for shared decision-making. It is not a roadmap for unilateral action.

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