Who? Connie Atkinson, partner at Kingsley Napley, London.
Why is she in the news? Represented a mother at the High Court, which refused to grant sperm donor Robert Albon’s application for a declaration that he is the father of her child.
Thoughts on the case: ‘This was a good result for our client and we were all pleased with the court’s decision not to grant a declaration of parentage in Mr Albon’s favour. While he is the biological father of “N”, it would not have been appropriate for him to be able to assert himself as a legal parent or to exercise any of the rights that may flow from that.
‘This case provides another important lesson for those considering using a sperm donor to conceive. Proper research needs to be undertaken. If you are not in a position to use a UK-licensed clinic (which gives more certainty about legal parentage), advice should be taken about conception and legal parentage, and also the likely outcome in the event of a breakdown of any of the relationships involved. Entering into a preconception agreement encourages discussions about several practical issues and helps to avoid lengthy, expensive and emotionally draining disputes.
‘As modern family set-ups become more prevalent, there is an increasing number of disputes over parental rights and contact arrangements. Preconception agreements are not legally binding, but encourage a dialogue about all intended parents’ hopes and serve as a record of the parents’ intentions at the time.’
Dealing with the media: ‘Several journalists had attended court and were following the case because Mr Albon is notorious. Not only does he claim to have fathered over 180 children, but he has also made previous claims trying to secure legal rights to children who are biologically his. It is in the public’s interest for the judgment to be shared in the hope that it helps prevent further disputes based on similar circumstances.’
Why become a lawyer? ‘It was either that or be a mechanic. I always wanted to be able to fix my own car, but my mother said I was argumentative, and I don’t think I would have coped well with permanently greasy hands.’
Career high: ‘I loved being the legal adviser on BBC drama The Split. I met a lot of the incredible, creative women who made the show and who genuinely wanted to learn about what life as a family lawyer was like, so they could ensure an accurate portrayal of the profession. I read and advised on the scripts and watched some of the filming. Very different to the day job!’
No comments yet