Child Arrangements Orders — What You Need to Know

What is this?

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order that sets out where a child will live, who they will spend time with, and how those arrangements will work.

What happens in practice?

1. Application – One parent (or sometimes another person with parental responsibility) fills in a C100 form and sends it to the family court, attaching any required documents (e.g., a mediation information and assessment meeting (MIAM) certificate unless an exemption applies).

2. First hearing – The court lists a short “first hearing” (often called a Directions Hearing) to check if the case can be settled by agreement, and to decide what further information is needed (such as a welfare report from CAFCASS).

3. Information gathering – If needed, CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) may prepare a report after speaking with the child, parents, and other relevant people.

4. Further hearings – The court may hold additional hearings to discuss the report, consider any disagreements, and try to reach a consensus.

5. Decision – If the parents cannot agree, the judge will make a Child Arrangements Order based on what they believe is best for the child. The order will specify living arrangements, contact times, and any conditions (e.g., supervised contact).

6. Enforcement – If someone does not follow the order, the other parent can apply to the court for enforcement; the court can impose sanctions or vary the order.

What do I need to do?

• Try mediation first – Unless you have an exemption (e.g., domestic abuse, urgency), you must attend a MIAM before filing.
• Complete the C100 form – Available on GOV.UK; give clear, factual information about the child’s current situation and what you are asking for.
• Gather evidence – Keep records of any communication about the child, notes of concerns, and any relevant documents (e.g., school reports, medical notes).
• Attend all court hearings – Arrive early, bring your paperwork, and be prepared to speak calmly about what you think is best for the child.
• Consider the child’s welfare – The court’s main priority is the child’s wellbeing; think about how your proposals support the child’s safety, stability, and emotional needs.
• Follow any interim orders – If the court makes a temporary arrangement while the case continues, comply with it unless you have a good reason to ask for a change.
• Seek support – You can bring a friend or adviser (but not a lawyer unless you have one) to hearings for moral support.

Where can I find more help?

• GOV.UK – Child Arrangements Orders: https://www.gov.uk/child-arrangements-order
• Citizens Advice – Family law: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/family/
• Rights of Women – Family law advice line: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/family-law-advice/
• Gingerbread – Support for single parents: https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/
• CAFCASS – Information for parents: https://www.cafcass.gov.uk/for-parents/
• National Legal Help (free legal advice clinics): https://www.legalaidagency.gov.uk/

Remember: this is general guidance only. For advice specific to your situation, speak to a solicitor, legal aid provider, or your local Citizens Advice.