Quick Answer
The C100 is the court form used to apply for a child arrangements order, prohibited steps order, or specific issue order in England and Wales. Download it free from GOV.UK. You must attend a MIAM first unless exempt. The court fee is £232.
The C100 form is the official court form used to apply for a Child Arrangements Order, Prohibited Steps Order, or Specific Issue Order in the Family Court of England and Wales. This comprehensive guide walks you through every section and helps you complete the form correctly.
The C100 is the official court form for applying for orders relating to children under the Children Act 1989. It is used for child arrangements (who the child lives with and spends time with), prohibited steps, and specific issue orders. The form is designed to gather all necessary information about your case.
Before filing a C100, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) unless an exemption applies. Exemptions include domestic abuse, urgency, or where the other party is overseas. The mediator signs Section 3 of the C100. This requirement encourages settlement before court proceedings.
The form has 8 sections covering: applicant details, respondent details, children's details, the orders sought, reasons for the application, MIAM information, domestic abuse allegations, and supporting information. Be factual and focused on the children's welfare. Avoid emotional language and stick to relevant facts.
The court fee for a C100 application is currently £232. If you are on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for full or partial fee remission using form EX160. CourtCraft Advocate can help you check your eligibility and complete the fee remission form.
Attend a MIAM
Contact a family mediator for a MIAM appointment. They will sign Section 3 of your C100 or confirm an exemption applies.
Download the C100 Form
Download the latest C100 form from the HMCTS website or use CourtCraft Advocate's guided form completion tool.
Complete All Sections
Fill in all sections carefully. Be factual and focus on the children's welfare. Avoid emotional language.
Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather any evidence supporting your application, such as school reports, medical records, or police reports.
File at the Family Court
Submit the completed C100 with the court fee (or EX160 fee remission form) at your local Family Court.
Serve the Respondent
The court will serve the application on the respondent, or you may be required to do so yourself.
After filing, you will typically receive a first hearing date (FHDRA) within 4-6 weeks. The full process can take 6-12 months depending on complexity.
No. You can file a C100 yourself as a litigant in person. CourtCraft Advocate can help you complete the form correctly.
The court will serve the application on the respondent and list a First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA) within 4-6 weeks.
Yes. If there is an immediate risk to the child, you can apply without notice (ex parte) using the C100 with a C2 application for urgent consideration.
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