Prohibited Steps Orders
What is this? A Prohibited Steps Order (PSO) is a court order that stops someone from doing a specific thing that could affect a child’s welfare, such as taking the child abroad or changing the child’s name. What happens in practice?
1. Application – One party (usually a parent, guardian, or someone with parental responsibility) fills out Form C100 and files it at the family court, explaining why they want the order and what they want to stop.
2. Court review – A judge looks at the application and may schedule a first hearing (often called a “first directions hearing”) to see if urgent action is needed.
3. Notice to the other party – The person who would be stopped (the respondent) is served with a copy of the application and given a date to respond.
4. Response – The respondent can file a response (using Form C7) explaining why they disagree or why the order isn’t needed.
5. Hearing – Both sides attend a hearing where the judge hears evidence, asks questions, and decides whether to make the PSO, change it, or dismiss it.
6. Order – If granted, the PSO sets out exactly what the respondent must not do and for how long (it can be temporary until a final decision or last until the child turns 18).
7. Enforcement – Breaching a PSO can be treated as contempt of court, which may lead to fines or, in serious cases, imprisonment.
What do I need to do? - If you want to apply for a PSO: - Complete Form C100 (available on GOV.UK) and attach any supporting evidence (e.g., messages, travel bookings, school letters). - File the form at your local family court and pay the fee unless you qualify for help with fees. - Keep a copy of everything you send and note the court date you’re given. - Prepare to explain at the hearing why the specific action you want to stop would harm the child’s welfare. - If you have been served with a PSO application: - Read the papers carefully and note the deadline for your response (usually 14 days). - Fill out Form C7 to set out your side of the story and any evidence showing the order isn’t needed or is too broad. - Attend the hearing; you can speak for yourself or ask a friend, advice worker, or duty solicitor to help you present your case. - If the order is made and you think it’s wrong, you can later apply to vary or discharge it using Form C2, but you’ll need to show a change in circumstances. - General tips: - Keep all communication (texts, emails, letters) related to the issue in a safe place. - Make notes of dates, times, and what was said or done – this can be useful if you need to show the court what’s happening. - Stay calm and focused on the child’s best interests when you speak to the judge or write your statements. Where can I find more help? - GOV.UK – Guidance on children and the courts, forms C100, C7, and C2: https://www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals/family-court - Citizens Advice – Free advice on family law matters and help with forms: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/family/ - Rights of Women – Legal information sheets for women facing family court issues: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/ - Gingerbread – Support for single parents, including court process explanations: https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/ - Local law clinics or university legal advice centres – Often offer free, confidential help with paperwork and court preparation. Remember: this is general guidance only. For advice specific to your situation, speak to a solicitor, legal aid provider, or your local Citizens Advice.