C100 Application UK 2026 | Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

A C100 application is how you ask the family court in England and Wales to make a decision about your children — a child arrangements order, prohibited steps order or specific issue order under section 8 of the Children Act 1989. This guide walks through the whole C100 application process: what you need before you apply, how to apply online or by post, the fee, and what happens after you submit.

Before You Start Your C100 Application

1. Attend a MIAM (or check your exemption)

Unless an exemption applies, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before the court will accept your C100 application. This is a legal requirement under section 10 of the Children and Families Act 2014 and Family Procedure Rules Part 3.

At the MIAM, an FMC-authorised mediator explains your options and, if you proceed to court, signs the confirmation section of your C100. A MIAM typically costs £120-£150 per person and is free if either of you qualifies for legal aid.

2. Gather what you need

• Full names and dates of birth for you, the other party and the children
• Addresses (or C8 form if you need to keep yours confidential)
• Your MIAM confirmation or exemption details
• Details of any previous court proceedings
• A parenting plan if you have one — the C100 asks whether you've prepared one

How to Submit a C100 Application

Applying online

The online C100 service is usually the best route:

• You can save your application and return within 28 days
• Payment is taken online
• Validation catches missing answers before you submit
• Processing is typically faster than postal applications

Applying by post

Download the C100 form from GOV.UK, complete it, and send the original plus 3 copies to your nearest family court. See our C100 form download guide for the direct links.

C100 Application Fee and Help With Fees

The C100 application fee is £270 (increased from £263 on 13 July 2026 — GOV.UK EX50).

| Cost item | Amount | |-----------|--------| | C100 court fee | £270 | | With Help with Fees (if eligible) | Reduced or £0 | | MIAM (before applying) | Typically £120-£150, free with legal aid | | Solicitor (optional) | £1,500-£5,000+ |

You do not need a solicitor to make a C100 application — many people represent themselves. See our full family court fees guide for every fee.

How Long Does a C100 Application Take?

• Issue and service: the court aims to process and serve applications within days to a few weeks of receipt
• First hearing (FHDRA): in many cases within about 2 months of issue
• Full proceedings: GOV.UK says it usually takes around 10 months to get a final court order, depending on where you live and your situation

Read what happens after a C100 is submitted for the step-by-step court process, including Cafcass safeguarding letters and hearing stages.

Common C100 Application Mistakes

1. Missing MIAM confirmation — the court will return or delay your application
2. Claiming an exemption that doesn't apply — courts scrutinise exemptions and can direct you to attend a MIAM anyway (FPR rule 3.10)
3. Using an old form version — use C100 (06.26)
4. Vague orders sought — be specific about what arrangements you're asking for
5. Forgetting the C1A — required where you allege harm or domestic abuse
6. Not sending 3 copies (postal applications)

How much is a C100 application?

The C100 application fee is £270 (since 13 July 2026). You may pay less or nothing through the Help with Fees scheme if you're on benefits or a low income. The MIAM you attend beforehand typically costs £120-£150 and is free with legal aid.

How long does a C100 application take to process?

The court usually issues the application and lists a first hearing (FHDRA) within about 2 months. A final order usually takes around 10 months according to GOV.UK, though contested cases can take longer.

Can I submit a C100 application online?

Yes. The official GOV.UK online service lets you complete, pay for and submit your C100 application digitally. You have 28 days to finish a saved application. Online applications are typically processed faster than postal ones.

Do I need a MIAM before a C100 application?

Yes, in most cases. Attending a MIAM is a legal requirement before applying for a child arrangements, prohibited steps or specific issue order, unless an exemption applies (for example domestic abuse with evidence, urgency, or a MIAM attended in the last 4 months).

Do I need a solicitor for a C100 application?

No. You can complete and submit a C100 yourself, and many parents do. A solicitor is worth considering if your case involves allegations of abuse, complex issues, or the other party is represented.

Sources & Further Reading

• GOV.UK — Apply for a court order about child arrangements
• GOV.UK — Form C100
• GOV.UK — Family court fees (EX50)
• GOV.UK — Get help with court fees
• Family Procedure Rules Part 3
• Cafcass

Related guides: C100 form guide · C100 form cost · What happens after C100 · Child arrangements order