Applying for full custody of a child, How to get full custody of a child as a mother, Child arrangement order, Child arrangement order UK, C100 form, Child arrangement order example, Types of court orders UK, Child arrangement order form.
A parent should always want what is best for their child; hence, doing the right thing by giving him the right kind of care and attention, especially at a challenging time such as separation or divorce.
Child custody is among those sensitive and often complicated issues that cause a lot of stress and anxiety for all parties involved.
It is important to understand the laws on child custody in the UK to make appropriate decisions and protect your legal rights in 2025. A lot goes into navigating these laws regarding considerations for the child’s welfare and dynamics within a family. A child custody lawyer can help guide you through the process, ensuring your rights and your child’s best interests are protected. In this write-up, we’ll explain how to apply for child custody.
Application
The first step when applying for a full custody case of your child is to make an official application for a Child Arrangements Order through a form called C100. The same should be handed over to the Family Court by paying the right fee. There, you must explain in explicit detail why you are applying for full custody of your child.
Apply Online
It is highly recommended that you apply for your child arrangements order online to avoid any delay in processing. Online applications are much quicker and faster compared to any other process.
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Apply by Post
If you are unable to apply online, then you can post a C100 paper application to your child’s local family court. Make sure that you include three copies of all documents with a mailed application. The designated family centre for your local area will help you. Their contact information may be found in the online data for your child’s local family court.
Filling in and Accessing Forms
PDF Forms
You can download and view the C100 form as a PDF on your computer. You then can print out, fill out, or save this document for use later.
How to download and open the PDF forms:
- Get Adobe Reader free- no subscription or fees.
- RIGHT CLICK on a document link select save link or select Download linked file.
- Save the form into the location desired (such as the Documents folder).
- Access Adobe Reader. Open the file that has just been saved; you will fill it out there.
These procedures, with additional available resources, guarantee an error-free application procedure.
Mediation
A case is usually only allowed to be heard in the courtroom after both parents have had a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). Parents are encouraged, through this preliminary step, to settle their issues outside of the courtroom.
It is meant to bring both parties together to speak with each other. If the situation involves domestic abuse or other severe issues, mediation may not be appropriate, and the court can proceed without it. If mediation is inappropriate or fails, the case will go to a hearing in court. It incites communication and cooperation without making decisions on behalf of anyone involved. Mediation is not, however always feasible and effective; if there is no agreement, then the case is taken to court.
Court Hearing
The case continues to court in case there is no solution reached through mediation. A court hearing gives both parents a chance to present their case before a judge.
A report from CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) will also be considered, providing the court with an impartial view of what is in the child’s best interests.
This report is often an important factor in the judge’s decision-making process. This will allow both parents an opportunity to tell their side of the story and ask questions. Of course, the hearing is another chance for clarification on information from the judge and to ensure that he/she understands fully. The court strives for an informed and balanced decision based on the truth before it, while the process may be emotionally charged, it’s about the child’s welfare and achieving the best for the child’s future.
Court Ruling
After listening to and considering both parties, the court will then reach a verdict. The court primarily looks out for the child’s best interests; thus, their safety, welfare, and emotional well-being take precedence. The Child Arrangements Order would be issued by the court in case it allows one parent full custody. It would outline a document with a description of how custody should be taken care of, which also would specify all terms and conditions to be obeyed by the parents.
It is quite important to note that the decision taken by the court is legally binding, requiring both parties from the start to follow the terms stipulated in the Child Arrangements Order. Failure to comply with the order will lead to legal effects such as appearing again in court or at an enforcement agency. The purpose of the court’s decision is to ensure that the child has a stable and secure environment and that both parents follow the arrangement for the child’s benefit.
