Child Arrangements Order Application UK - Step by Step Guide

How to Apply for a Child Arrangements Order

A Child Arrangements Order (CAO) is a court order that sets out who a child lives with and when they spend time with each parent. This guide explains the entire application process.

What Is a Child Arrangements Order?

A CAO replaced the old 'Residence Orders' and 'Contact Orders' in 2014. It can specify:

• Who the child lives with (previously residence)
• When the child spends time with someone (previously contact)
• When and what type of contact occurs (direct, indirect, supervised)

Step 1: Attend a MIAM

Before applying to court, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) unless an exemption applies.

MIAM Exemptions Include:

• Domestic abuse (with evidence)
• Child protection concerns
• Urgency
• Other party's location unknown
• Previous MIAM in last 4 months

What Happens at a MIAM?

• A mediator explains mediation
• Assesses whether mediation is suitable
• Issues a certificate if you've attended
• Cost: £100-200

Step 2: Complete Form C100

The main application form for a Child Arrangements Order:

• Available on gov.uk
• Can be completed online or on paper
• Must include MIAM certificate (or exemption details)

Information Required:

• Your details and the other parent's details
• Children's details
• What order you're seeking
• Any concerns about the child's welfare
• Previous court proceedings

Step 3: Pay the Court Fee

Current fee: £232

Fee exemption or reduction available if you receive certain benefits or have low income.

Step 4: Court Issues Application

The court will:

• Check the application is complete
• Send copies to the other parent (respondent)
• Request Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory Service) involvement
• Set a date for the first hearing

Step 5: Cafcass Safeguarding Checks

Cafcass will:

• Conduct police checks on both parents
• Check local authority records
• Phone both parents before the first hearing
• Prepare a safeguarding letter for the court

Step 6: First Hearing (FHDRA)

The First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment:

• Usually 4-6 weeks after application
• Both parents must attend
• Cafcass officer may be present
• Judge encourages agreement
• If agreement reached, order made by consent
• If not, directions given for next steps

Step 7: Further Hearings (If Needed)

If no agreement at FHDRA:

• Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA) - Another attempt at settlement
• Fact-finding hearing - If allegations need determination
• Final hearing - Judge decides if no agreement

Possible Outcomes

• Lives with order - Specifying primary residence
• Spends time with order - Setting out contact schedule
• Shared care arrangements - Equal or near-equal time
• Supervised contact - If safety concerns exist
• Indirect contact - Letters, calls, video contact

Timeline

• Simple agreed cases: 3-4 months
• Contested cases: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with fact-finding: 12+ months

Costs

• Court fee: £232
• Mediation: £100-200 for MIAM
• Legal fees: Vary widely - consider fixed fees

Get Expert Help

MCR Solicitors can represent you throughout the process or provide advice at any stage. Call 0161 466 1280.