How to apply for a Child Arrangements Order.

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order that determines where a child lives, who the child can spend time with, and other contact arrangements. Parents, guardians, or anyone with parental responsibility can apply directly for a Child Arrangements Order. Other persons such as grandparents can also apply, but they must seek the courts permission first.

Before applying to the court, you must try to reach an out of court settlement. This involves attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) where an assessment will be made whether mediation could help resolve the dispute. If mediation is not suitable such as if the other party refuses to engage or attend, evidence will be provided to demonstrate that you have attempted to keep the matter out of court.

Only after attempting mediation, can you complete and submit an application for a Child Arrangements Order to the Court (the form C100).

You will need to send the original completed C100, three copies, and the court fee to your nearest family court. You can find this using your postcode.

After sending the documents to the court, the court will notify you of a case number and the next steps, which may include attending a hearing. The court will aim to set a first hearing within two months, but often there are delays.