Paternity laws have strengthened considerably over the last few years. Now, most fathers are entitled to statutory paternity rights, including:

• Paid time off to attend two ante-natal appointments
• Up to two weeks off following the birth or adoption
• Paternity pay
• Shared Parental Leave and Pay, if applicable

Your contract may also provide greater rights, over and above your statutory entitlement.

Not all fathers are eligible to statutory paternity rights. If you’re uncertain what your position is, contact our employment law solicitors for advice. We can clarify your position, helping you understand what to expect in terms of paid leave, both during the pregnancy and following the birth or adoption.

Have your paternity rights been denied?

If you are eligible to statutory paternity rights but your employer is refusing to co-operate, then we recommend that you get early legal advice. The first step would normally be to raise a formal grievance. If this does not produce a satisfactory outcome, then you may wish to take the matter to an employment tribunal.

If there is a statutory right to paid paternity leave, then your employer cannot refuse. If this has happened to you, we can help. Our employment law solicitors are here to uphold your statutory paternity rights and will fight to achieve the outcome you deserve.