C100 Form Guide: When You Need It, What It Does, and How to Complete It
Welcome to the quick resource for understanding and completing the C100 form. Whether you are navigating the complexities of child arrangements or seeking clarity on family court processes, this guide will simplify every step of the way. First, we’ll cover some basics and then get into the step-by-step guide.
1) When Do You Need a C100 Form?
The C100 form is used to request the court’s intervention when parents or guardians cannot agree on child arrangements. Below are specific scenarios where you might need this form:
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Divorce or Separation: When parents can’t agree on who the child lives with or spends time with (learn more about child arrangements).
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Disputes Between Parents: Ongoing disagreements about the child’s schooling, medical treatment, or contact schedules.
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Changes in Circumstances: Significant changes in living arrangements requiring a court’s decision.
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Urgent Protection: To prevent harm to a child due to domestic violence or abduction (learn more about abduction).
Examples:
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A parent wants to take the child abroad, but the other disagrees.
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One parent has unilaterally stopped contact with the child.
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A grandparent seeks contact with a grandchild.
2) What Does the C100 Form Do?
The C100 form is the gateway to three types of court orders under the Children Act 1989:
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Child Arrangements Order (CAO): Determines where the child lives and when they spend time with each parent. A CAO can establish:
Living arrangements: With whom the child will live or have contact.
Contact arrangements: This may include direct contact (face-to-face), overnight contact, supervised contact, indirect contact (e.g., letters), or no contact if necessary. (More details on CAOs).
Specific Issue Order: Resolves particular disputes, such as which school the child should attend.
Prohibited Steps Order: Prevents a parent from making certain decisions, like taking the child abroad without consent.
3) Legal Requirements Before Submitting the C100 Form
Before submitting a C100 form, you must fulfil the following:
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Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM): Unless exempt, you must attend a MIAM to explore mediation as an alternative to court.
Exemptions: Domestic abuse, urgency, or other specific reasons (valid exemptions).
Parental Responsibility: Confirm you have legal standing to apply (e.g., as a parent, guardian, or grandparent with permission).
Court Fees: The standard fee is £255, with potential fee waivers for those on low income or benefits (check your eligibility for help with fees).
4) Step-By-Step Guide to Completing the C100 Form
Firstly, you don’t have to fill out every section. For example, if you don’t have a solicitor tick “No” and skip section 14.
Read the C100 Form carefully and move section by section. Don’t be lazy! The details matter and do get checked so make sure you fill out the information properly and if it’s okay to take breaks.
Applicant and Respondent Details
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Enter your name, address, and contact details as the applicant.
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Provide the same for the respondent (usually the other parent).
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Indicate the type of order sought (e.g., Child Arrangements Order).
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Tick the boxes if you have any concerns about risk of harm.
Section 1: Children’s Details
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List the full names, dates of birth, and addresses of all children involved.
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Specify your relationship to each child and the respondent’s relationship.
Section 2-4: MIAM Attendance or Exemptions
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State whether you attended a MIAM or qualify for an exemption.
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Provide evidence for exemptions, such as police reports or medical certificates for domestic violence cases.
Section 5-6: Reasons for Application
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Clearly explain why you are applying. Focus on the child’s best interests and avoid emotional or speculative language.
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Example: “The respondent has stopped all contact with the child without explanation. I request a court order to re-establish regular contact.”
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If you need an Urgent Without Notice Hearing provide your reasoning why.
Section 7-13: Attending Court and Confidentiality
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Provide details of any previous proceedings, whether there is an international element.
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Indicate any special requirements for attending court, such as interpreters or separate waiting areas.
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Use Form C8 if you need to keep your address confidential (download Form C8).
Statement of Truth
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Sign and date to confirm the information provided is accurate.
5) Common Questions About the C100 Form
Who can apply for a Child Arrangements Order?
Parents, step-parents, guardians, or anyone the child has lived with for at least three of the last five years.
Others may apply with the consent of all individuals with parental responsibility or the court’s permission.
How long does a CAO last?
Orders about living arrangements usually last until the child turns 18.
Orders about contact generally last until the child turns 16, though some may extend to 18.
Can grandparents apply?
Yes, but they may need permission unless the child has lived with them for a significant period.
Can I submit the form online?
Yes, online submission is now available for most cases (apply online).
Make Sure It’s Done Right, First Time.
The court fee for a C100 application is £255 so it’s important to do it correctly, first time.
With over 20 years of experience, 15,000+ cases, and 300+ 5-star reviews, we provide unmatched support:
Expert Guidance: Assistance with completing the C100 form accurately.
Affordable Support: As McKenzie Friends and paralegals, we offer cost-effective alternatives to solicitors. (view our prices)
Personalised Help: Tailored advice for your unique circumstances (view our services).
