C100 Form UK 2026 | Download Guide

Content verified: March 2026 Download C100 Form Guide (PDF)

What is a C100 Form?

The C100 form, officially titled "Application under the Children Act 1989", is the form you use to apply to family court for orders about children in England and Wales. It is sometimes called a "C100 application form" or "form C100" and is used for family court applications.

You can use the form C100 to apply for three types of order:

• Child Arrangements Order - Where children live and who they spend time with
• Prohibited Steps Order - To prevent the other parent from doing something specific (such as taking the child abroad)
• Specific Issue Order - For decisions about schooling, medical treatment, religion, etc.

The C100 form replaced what used to be called "custody" and "access" applications.

Courts now focus on "arrangements" - recognising that both parents typically remain involved in their children's lives.

When Do You Need a C100 Application Form?

You might need to submit a C100 application form if:

• You can't agree where children should live
• The other parent won't let you see your children
• You want to change an existing arrangement
• You need to relocate with the children
• There are disagreements about school or medical decisions
• You have concerns about a child's safety with the other parent

Court should be a last resort. It's expensive, stressful, and can take months. Mediation is usually faster, cheaper, and gives you more control over the outcome. Before applying, consider direct negotiation, family mediation (required before court), solicitor negotiations, or collaborative law.

C100 Form Online: How to Apply

You have two options for submitting your C100 form application:

Apply Online (Recommended)

You can apply through the MyHMCTS portal on gov.uk. The online C100 form process:

• Guides you step-by-step through each section
• Lets you save your progress and return later
• Validates your answers as you go (reducing errors)
• Allows online payment of the fee
• Is generally processed faster than paper applications

Paper Form (By Post)

Alternatively, you can download the C100 form PDF from gov.uk, print and complete it by hand (use black ink) or fill it digitally, then post or deliver it to your local family court with a cheque or postal order for the fee.

Tip: The online C100 form process is generally quicker and easier. You'll need a gov.uk account to use it.

C100 Form Download

If you prefer a paper application, download the C100 form directly from GOV.UK. The form C100 is a PDF you can print and fill in by hand, or fill digitally using a PDF reader then print and sign.

You may also need these supplementary forms with your C100 application form:

• C100 - Main application form (required)
• C1A - Allegations of harm supplement (if applicable)
• FM1 - MIAM certificate from your mediator
• EX160 - Help with Fees form (if applying for fee remission)

MIAM Requirement Before Submitting Form C100

On page 3 of the C100 form (the MIAM section), you must indicate one of the following:

1. You've attended a MIAM and have a signed certificate (Form FM1)
2. You have a valid exemption (domestic abuse, urgency, child protection, etc.)
3. A mediator has signed to confirm the other party won't attend or mediation isn't suitable

How to Complete the C100 Application Form

The C100 form has several sections:

• Section 1: MIAM Information - Confirm you've attended a MIAM or have an exemption. Attach your FM1 certificate or exemption evidence.
• Section 2: Applicant's Details - Your full name, date of birth, address, and contact information. You can request your address be kept confidential.
• Section 3: Respondent's Details - The other parent's name, date of birth, and address if known.
• Section 4: Children's Details - Full names, dates of birth, gender, who they currently live with, and parental responsibility status.
• Section 5: Orders Applied For - Specify exactly what you're asking the court to order.
• Section 6: Reasons for Application - Explain why you're making this application and what you've tried so far.
• Section 7: Harm & Risk (Form C1A) - Any concerns about domestic abuse, violence, neglect, or other harm to the children.
• Section 8: Other Proceedings - Any related court cases involving these children or family members.
• Section 9: Declaration & Signature - Sign to confirm the information is true to the best of your knowledge.

Example of a Completed C100 Application Form

While every C100 application is unique, here's guidance on how to approach the key sections. A well-completed form C100 is clear, factual, and focused on the children's needs.

Section 5 (Orders Applied For) - Example:

"I am applying for a Child Arrangements Order for [child's name] to spend time with me every other weekend from Friday after school to Sunday at 6pm, and one evening per week (Wednesday) after school until 7pm. I also seek shared holiday time, divided equally between both parents."

Section 6 (Reasons) - Example:

"The respondent and I separated in [month/year]. Since separation, I have been unable to maintain regular contact with [child's name]. I attended a MIAM on [date] and the respondent declined to attend mediation. I believe it is in [child's name]'s best interests to have a meaningful relationship with both parents."

How Much Does a C100 Form Cost?

The court fee for submitting a C100 form is £263 (GOV.UK EX50) (Gov.uk family court fees). This is a one-off payment made when you submit the C100 application form.

| Item | Cost | Notes | |------|------|-------| | C100 Form Court Fee | £263 (GOV.UK EX50) | One-off submission fee | | With Fee Remission | Free | If you qualify for Help with Fees | | MIAM attendance | Around £120 | Required before submitting C100 form | | MIAM with Legal Aid | Free | If eligible for legal aid | | Solicitor (optional) | £200-£500+ | To help complete the form C100 |

For more detailed information about C100 form costs, see our C100 Form Cost Guide.

Fee Remission (Help with Fees)

If you're on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may not have to pay the C100 form court fee. Apply using Form EX160 at the same time as your C100 application. You may qualify if you:

• Receive Universal Credit, Income Support, or income-based JSA/ESA
• Have a gross monthly income below £1,085 (single) or £1,245 (couple)
• Have savings under £3,000 (or £16,000 if over State Pension age)

What Happens After You Submit a C100 Form?

Once the court receives your C100 form, the following process begins:

For a complete guide to what happens after submission, see What Happens After C100 Form.

How Long Does a C100 Form Take?

The timeline for a C100 form application varies depending on complexity:

| Stage | Typical Timeline | |-------|-----------------| | Court processes C100 application | 1-2 days | | Cafcass safeguarding checks | 1-2 weeks | | First hearing (FHDRA) | 4-6 weeks from C100 application | | Total process (if contested) | 6-12 months (Gov.uk) |

Good news: Many C100 form cases are resolved at or shortly after the first hearing (FHDRA). According to Cafcass, their officers attend most first hearings to help parents reach agreement. If both parents reach an agreement with the help of the judge and Cafcass officer, a consent order can be made on the same day - meaning the C100 form process takes just 4-6 weeks total.

Emergency C100 Applications

In urgent situations where a child is at immediate risk, you can apply for an emergency hearing using the C100 form. This is called a "without notice" (or "ex parte") application.

When to make an emergency C100 application

• A parent is about to take the child out of the country
• There is an immediate risk of physical harm to the child
• A child is being hidden or withheld unlawfully
• There is a risk of serious irreversible harm if the court doesn't act immediately

How to apply

1. Complete the standard C100 form and tick the "urgency" box
2. Complete Form C1A detailing the risk of harm
3. Write a supporting witness statement explaining the urgency
4. Contact your local family court directly and explain it's urgent

Emergency C100 form hearings can be listed within 24-72 hours if the court agrees there is immediate risk. You are usually exempt from the MIAM requirement in genuine emergencies.

C100 Form for Grandparents

Grandparents can use the C100 form to apply for a Child Arrangements Order to spend time with their grandchildren, but the process is slightly different.

Do grandparents need permission to apply?

Unlike parents, grandparents need permission from the court (called "leave") before making a C100 form application, unless:

• The child has lived with you for at least 3 years
• You have the consent of everyone with parental responsibility
• There is an existing Child Arrangements Order and you want to vary it

How to apply as a grandparent

1. Attend a MIAM (same requirement as parents)
2. Submit a Form C2 asking for permission to apply, explaining your relationship with the child
3. If permission is granted, submit your C100 form with the specific orders you're seeking

Courts generally recognise the value of grandparent relationships and will grant leave if there is a genuine connection with the child.

Responding to a C100 Form

If you've been served with a C100 form (meaning the other parent has made an application about you), here's what you need to do:

Tip: Being served with a C100 form doesn't mean you've done anything wrong. It means the other parent has asked the court to help resolve a disagreement about children. The court will consider both sides equally.

C100 Application Form vs Other Family Court Forms

The C100 form is one of several family court forms. Here's how it differs:

| Form | Purpose | When Used | |------|---------|----------| | C100 Form | Child arrangements applications | Disputes about where children live, spend time | | D8 Form | Divorce petition | To start divorce proceedings | | Form A | Financial remedy application | Disputes about money, property, pensions | | C79 Form | Enforcement application | When someone breaches a court order | | FL401 | Non-molestation order | Domestic abuse protection |

Frequently Asked Questions About C100 Forms

Can I apply for a C100 without a solicitor?

Yes, many people submit C100 forms without a solicitor (as a "litigant in person"). The online form C100 guides you through the process. However, if your case involves domestic abuse, complex finances, or international elements, legal advice is recommended.

What if I don't know the other parent's address for the C100 form?

You should make reasonable efforts to find their address. If you genuinely cannot, you can ask the court to serve C100 form papers by alternative means (such as email or through a relative).

Can I keep my address confidential on the C100 form?

Yes. If you have safety concerns, request your address be kept confidential using Form C8. The court will not share your address with the other party when serving the C100 form.

What if the other parent lives abroad and I want to submit a C100 form?

International cases are more complex. If the child is habitually resident in England or Wales, the court can still hear your C100 application. Seek legal advice for international cases.

Can I withdraw my C100 application?

Yes, you can withdraw your C100 form at any time by notifying the court in writing. However, the court may refuse if it believes the child's welfare requires continued involvement.

Do I need to attend court in person after submitting a C100 form?

The first hearing (FHDRA) can sometimes be attended remotely by video link. Later hearings involving evidence are usually in person. The court will specify how to attend after processing your C100 form.

How much does a C100 form cost and can I get help with fees?

The C100 form court fee is £263 (GOV.UK EX50) (Gov.uk EX50). If you are on a low income or receive certain benefits, you may qualify for fee remission using Form EX160. This can reduce or eliminate the C100 form fee entirely. Check eligibility at Gov.uk Help with Court Fees.

What is the difference between a C100 form and C100 application form?

These terms refer to the same document. The C100 form is also called the C100 application form or simply form C100. All refer to the official family court application for child arrangements orders.

What is Cafcass and what do they do after I submit a C100 form?

Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) is an independent organisation that looks after the interests of children in family court cases. After you submit a C100 form, Cafcass will conduct safeguarding checks with police and local authorities, and a Cafcass officer will attend your first hearing to help parents reach agreement.

How long does a C100 form application take?

According to Gov.uk, C100 form court orders usually take around 10 months. However, if you reach agreement at the first hearing (FHDRA), it can be resolved in 4-6 weeks. Complex C100 form cases with fact-finding hearings can take 12-18 months.

Can I use the C100 form for financial matters?

No, the C100 form is only for child-related matters (where they live, spend time, and specific decisions). For financial disputes in divorce or separation, you need to use Form A (financial remedy application).

What happens if I make a mistake on my C100 form?

Minor mistakes can often be corrected at the first hearing. For significant errors, you may need to file an amended C100 application or provide additional evidence. The court will guide you on what's needed.

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Official Resources & Authority Links

For authoritative information about the C100 form, visit these official UK government and regulatory sources:

Government Sources

• Gov.uk - Apply for a Court Order - Official guidance on C100 form applications
• Gov.uk - Family Court Fees (EX50) - Current C100 form fee schedule
• Gov.uk - Children Act Forms - Download C100 form and related forms
• Gov.uk - Help with Court Fees - C100 form fee remission eligibility
• Family Mediation Voucher Scheme - £500 towards mediation before C100 form

Court & Legal Resources

• Family Procedure Rules - Legal framework for C100 form family courts
• Cafcass - Children and Family Court Advisory Service
• Find a Court - Locate your local family court for C100 form submission

Mediation Services

• Family Mediation Council - Find FMC-accredited mediators before C100 form
• National Family Mediation - UK's largest family mediation charity
• Resolution - Family law professionals network