If you face legal issues related to your children, you may be advised to complete the C100 form. Whether you are involved in a custody dispute or are seeking to establish contact with a child you no longer live, with the C100 form will be the first step.
What types of orders is the C100 form used for?
The C100 form is one of the most commonly used forms in child law proceedings. If you are looking to apply for one of the following orders, you will need to complete this form:
- Child Arrangement Order: This order determines where the child will live and with whom they will spend time.
- Specific Issue Order: This order provides direction on a specific question related to parental responsibility.
- Prohibited Steps Order: This order prevents a particular action, regardless of whether a parent has parental responsibility.
- Changing a Child Arrangement Order: This occurs when a parent wishes to modify an existing court order regarding child access.
- Stopping Child Contact: This is when one parent seeks to prevent the other parent from having any contact with the child.
Why is a C100 form needed?
The form C100 is required if you want the Court to issue a legally binding order. This form is typically used when you and your former partner cannot agree. Once completed, the C100 should be submitted to the family court as part of your application.
Where can I obtain a C100 form from?
If you are attending in person, you can download a copy from here. If you require legal assistance, your child law specialist will provide you with a copy to fill out.
How long do the family courts take to process the C100 form?
It is important to note that the courts may take 4 to 6 weeks to process these applications. Delays may occur if the Court is dealing with a backlog of cases. However, you can submit an emergency application to the family court if the matter is urgent. Typically, such applications are considered on the day they are submitted, as the welfare of a child may be at risk.
Will I need to attend mediation before my C100 form is processed?
It is essential to obtain mediation before processing your child proceedings application. You must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). There are specific circumstances in which mediation may not be required, such as when there is evidence of domestic abuse. This meeting will determine whether mediation is suitable for your situation and whether you can reach an agreement outside of Court. Only authorized mediators can conduct a mediation meeting, which is required before proceeding with your application, unless exceptions apply.
If you are making an urgent application, mediation will not be necessary at that time due to the urgency of the matter.
If you need assistance arranging a mediation meeting, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We can help you find a local mediator to minimize further disruption or stress. Alternatively, you can visit the Family Mediation Council website to locate a mediator.
I am unable to complete the C100 form. Can I obtain guidance?
Often, individuals involved in child law disputes may experience emotional distress and require support to complete the application form. Child law specialists can provide that necessary assistance. At Harrington Family Law, we take pride in helping many clients navigate their child law matters by guiding them through the process, from completing the C100 form to preparing for hearings.
With extensive knowledge and experience, our specialists offer practical and tailored advice to suit your unique circumstances. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and benefit from our expert guidance.
What happens once the application is submitted to the family court?
Once the Court receives the application form, it will issue the application and provide you and the respondent with a notice of issue. The respondent must also acknowledge receipt of the court form. Following this, the Court will schedule a first hearing for a dispute resolution appointment. The purpose of this appointment is to consider any safeguarding information, and the Court will encourage both parties to agree.
Cafcass may be instructed to conduct initial inquiries regarding the child’s welfare. At the first hearing, the Court will not review any evidence; instead, it will assess whether the matter can be settled amicably. If an agreement cannot be reached at this stage, the Court will issue directions to move the case forward and prepare it for a full hearing, where evidence can be presented.
At this point, the Court may also direct Cafcass to prepare a Section 7 report to help determine the appropriate course of action. If either party raises serious allegations that could impact the case’s outcome, a fact-finding hearing may occur before the final hearing to resolve these issues. Finally, the matter will be listed for a final hearing, during which the Court will issue an order and make a binding decision that applies to all parties involved.
Arrange a free initial consultation with our family law specialists today.
Our family specialists have experience dealing with all aspects of child proceedings. We can assist you at any stage of the proceedings, from completing the C100 to preparing you for your final hearing. Contact us today at 01484 810210 to discuss your options.
With family lawyers in Cleckheaton, Brighouse and Holmfirth, we are proud to be within local reach of clients across Yorkshire.