Frequently Asked Questions
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A C100 form is the document you use to ask a family court in England or Wales to make decisions about arrangements for children when parents or carers can’t agree. It’s often used to decide where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, and other important issues like schooling or travel abroad.
Why do I need one?
If you can’t resolve things informally or through mediation, the C100 form starts the legal process to ask the court to get involved. It’s usually a last resort when communication has broken down or there are serious concerns about a child’s wellbeing.
Before you can submit the form, you normally need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This short meeting gives you a chance to find out whether mediation might help you to avoid court al together. If mediation isn’t suitable or doesn’t go ahead, the mediator will give you a signed certificate. You’ll need to include this certificate when you file your C100 form. In some cases – such as domestic abuse or urgency – you may be exempt from this step.