Rights of access; advice and support in exercising these rights

A child has the right to contact with both parents, i.e. to see and speak to both mother and father. Each parent is obliged and entitled to have contact with the child. The right of contact exists independently of custody rights and helps to promote the child's development. Accordingly, grandparents and siblings as well as other close caregivers who actually have or have had responsibility for the child have a right to contact if this is in the best interests of the child.

Children and young people are entitled to advice and support in exercising their right of access. They are supported by the youth welfare office in ensuring that the persons entitled to contact make use of this right in their best interests. Parents, other persons entitled to contact (e.g. grandparents) and persons in whose care the child is (e.g. foster parents) are also entitled to advice and support in exercising their right of contact. However, the youth welfare office has no means of enforcing contact.

If you need advice and support, contact the youth welfare office responsible for the child's place of residence.

Advice and support is free of charge.

The family court can restrict or exclude a parent's right of access if this is necessary for the child's welfare. A decision that restricts or excludes the right of access or its enforcement for a longer period of time or permanently can only be made if the child's welfare would otherwise be at risk. In particular, the family court can order that contact may only take place if a third party willing to cooperate is present (so-called accompanied contact).