England & Wales
Child Arrangements Order
Family Court (Form C100, MIAM exemption for DA)
Information only. This is not legal advice. Court procedures and the law change. Always confirm with a solicitor, Citizens Advice, or a domestic abuse advocate before acting.
Who can apply
Parents, anyone with parental responsibility, anyone with whom child has lived for 3+ years, certain relatives with leave.
Grounds
Welfare paramount; welfare checklist applied. PD12J governs DA cases and requires fact-finding before contact decisions.
Evidence required
Welfare reports (s.7 CAFCASS, s.37 local authority), schedule of allegations (Scott Schedule), texts, police disclosure, school/medical reports.
Duration
Usually until child is 18.
Breach consequences
Enforcement order (unpaid work), financial compensation, contempt. Courts cautious where DA in background.
Legal aid
Available where DA evidence meets the gateway.
Apply for this order
Download the official application forms, see where to send them, and get free advice. Forms link to the government publication page so you always get the current revision.
Download the forms
Where to send / file
- Apply online — Children Act online application service
- Find your nearest Family Court (England & Wales) Use the 'Domestic abuse' filter — applications are filed at your nearest Family Court counter or by post.
- Check if you qualify for legal aid Means-tested; evidence-of-abuse requirement is satisfied by many DA indicators.
Tip: Use our Templates page for a Part 22 witness statement, position statement, chronology and Scott Schedule to attach to your application.
Underlying legislation: View the Act