does he have any rights?

[badmummy101]

SD is 12 his bio father has chosen not to see or speak to him since he was 3 months. Not paid maintenance, had zero input. Through his choice. His family recently called me asking to speak to ds. He does not want to, he doesn't know them. Do bio dad or his family have any rights to my son?

I'd think bio dad does yes in the long run. But any contact after so long would have to be at a very gradual pace, and ( I may be wrong ) but at 12 your SD's opinion / feelings would be taken into account by a court.

He / they can't just pop up out of the blue and make any demands. Suggest you post in Legal too..

Sorry, I'm sure someone with

... more experience will post in a minute

No rights, only responsibilities.

Sorry meant ds not sd.

ILoveTIFFANY is correct. Parents don't have rights, just responsibilities. If children live with one parent it is a child's right to know and see the other parent.

In these circumstances indirect contact is usually the starting point. Children who are secure about their heritage and identity tend to grow up with better self esteem. Developing a child's understanding of an absent or previously unknown parent and their extended family can be assisted through indirect contact such as letters, cards and photos.