Foreldrerett

Foreldrerett, or parental authority, is the legal right and duty of parents to care for a child and to make decisions affecting the child’s upbringing and welfare. In Norway, foreldreretten ordinarily rests with both parents and lasts until the child reaches adulthood, unless a court alters the arrangement.

It covers decisions about where the child lives, education, health care, and general upbringing. Parents are expected to cooperate on major matters, and during normal circumstances the right to exercise foreldreretten is shared between both parents (joint custody).

When parents separate or divorce, joint foreldreansvar is common; in some cases one parent may be granted sole foreldreansvar, while the other parent retains visitation rights (samvær). The exact arrangement is determined by the court or by agreement between the parties.

Parental authority ends when the child becomes 18, but the child’s views and best interests guide decisions at all ages. In practice, older children may have increasing input in certain matters, and emergency medical decisions can be taken without delay when needed, with appropriate consultation.

Foreldreretten can be restricted or revoked by a court if a parent is deemed unfit or if the child’s safety or welfare requires it. The Barnevern (child welfare service) may initiate proceedings to protect the child, potentially leading to temporary or permanent changes in parental authority.

Foreldrerett is part of the broader concept of foreldreansvar, which includes the duties related to the child’s care and upbringing. If a parent cannot exercise authority, a guardian may be appointed by the court.

Legal basis: Foreldrerett is governed primarily by Barneloven (the Child Act) and related family law provisions, with decisions enforced by the courts. The overarching aim is to safeguard the child’s best interests and rights.