Correcting the Record: Legal Parentage and Your Family’s Story 

Understanding a Declaration of Parentage

Every child has the right to know who their parents are. When the information recorded on a birth certificate is inaccurate or incomplete, it can affect not only a child’s sense of identity but also important aspects of their legal status. 

A Declaration of Parentage is a legal process used to confirm who a child’s biological parent is and to correct the official record where necessary. It can provide long-term certainty and emotional closure for families, ensuring that the truth is reflected in law. 

What Is a Declaration of Parentage?

A Declaration of Parentage is a court order confirming who a person’s biological parent is. It can arise in several circumstances, such as: 

• DNA testing disproving or confirming paternity 
• Uncertainty or assumptions made at birth 
• Errors following surrogacy or international births 
• Historic registrations that need correction 

Applications are made under the Family Law Act 1986, section 55A, using Form C63, and are governed by the Family Procedure Rules 2010. 

“A Declaration of Parentage can bring clarity and certainty to families during what is often a very personal and emotional time. Our focus is on supporting clients sensitively while ensuring the law accurately reflects their family story.” – Alisha Rait, Family Law Solicitor at RLK Solicitors

Why It Matters

Knowing who your biological parents are is fundamental to personal identity and emotional wellbeing. A Declaration of Parentage ensures that official records reflect biological truth giving clarity for the individual, the family, and future generations. 

Accurate parentage records can also have wider implications, including: 

• Legal rights and entitlements 
• Citizenship and nationality 
• Inheritance and succession matters 
• Future documentation such as passports or visas 

While these legal implications can be important, the primary focus of the court will always be the child’s right to know the truth about their parentage. 

How the Process Works

1. Application
   The applicant submits Form C63, the original birth certificate and the relevant court fee, demonstrating a personal interest in the outcome. 
2. Evidence
   The court will require clear evidence, typically including DNA results and supporting documentation. 
3. Court Declaration
   If satisfied, the court issues a formal Declaration of Parentage confirming the child’s biological parent. 
4. Re-registration
   The declaration is sent to the Registrar General within 21 days, and the birth is re-registered. The original entry is annotated rather than replaced. 

Importantly, a Declaration of Parentage does not automatically confer parental responsibility (PR). A separate application must be made for PR where required. 

Sensitive, Supportive Legal Guidance

At RLK Solicitors, our Family Law team understands the emotional significance of establishing legal parentage. We guide clients through the process with care, confidentiality and clarity whether confirming paternity, correcting an error, or updating official records. 

We can also work alongside our wills and probate advisers to ensure the family’s legal position is fully understood where inheritance or succession may be relevant. 

For confidential advice on applications for a Declaration of Parentage, please contact: 

enquiries@rlksolicitors.com | 0121 450 7800