Family Mediation: What is a C100 Form and How Can I Obtain one?

C100 form is used to apply for a court order relating to child arrangements, such as deciding where a child should live or how they should spend time with each parent.

In family disputes, mediation often provides a productive space for parents to negotiate and make arrangements for their children. When an agreement can’t be reached, however, one or both parents may seek assistance from the family court. If you’re required to do so, the C100 form is used to apply for a court order relating to child arrangements, such as deciding where a child should live or how they should spend time with each parent.

This guide will explain what the C100 form is, when it’s necessary, how to obtain it, and how family mediation, like the services offered by Ark Mediation, can help you navigate the process.

What is a C100 Form?

The C100 form is the application form required to request a child arrangements order, a prohibited steps order, or a specific issue order from the family court. A C100 form is typically used when parents cannot agree on child arrangements or when one parent is seeking court intervention on a specific issue, such as preventing a parent from taking a child out of the country without permission.

Common Reasons for a C100 Form Application

• To establish or modify a child arrangements order (covering residence, visitation, and contact).

• For a prohibited steps order, preventing one parent from making unilateral decisions, such as relocating a child abroad.

• For a specific issue order, addressing particular disputes, like which school a child should attend or specific religious practices.

To apply, most cases require proof that you have attended a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) unless exempt, demonstrating that mediation was attempted before moving forward with a court application.

When is Mediation Required Before Filing a C100 Form?

In the UK, courts encourage parents to consider mediation first before proceeding with legal action. A MIAM is a required initial meeting with a mediator to assess whether mediation can help you resolve your issues without court intervention. This is often a beneficial and less adversarial step for both parents and children. Mediation can provide a supportive environment where both parents can work towards a constructive solution with the help of a neutral mediator.

If mediation proves unsuccessful, the mediator will provide a signed MIAM certificate, which is then included with your C100 form when submitting the application to court. For more on MIAMs, visit the UK government’s MIAM information page.

MIAM Exemptions

There are specific exemptions from attending a MIAM, such as situations involving domestic abuse, child protection concerns, or urgency (e.g., a risk of the child being taken abroad imminently). If you believe you qualify for an exemption, consult a mediation service to discuss your options.

How to Obtain a C100 Form

1. Download the Form: The C100 form can be downloaded from the UK government’s official website at C100 Application Form.

2. Complete the Application: The form requires detailed information, including the applicant’s and respondent’s personal information, a description of the issues, details about the child’s living situation, and the arrangements you are seeking.

3. Attach the MIAM Certificate: Unless exempt, you must include the MIAM certificate provided by the mediator.

4. Submit the Form: After completing the form, it can be submitted either by mail or in person to the family court along with the necessary fees. If eligible, you may apply for financial help with fees.

Completing the form accurately and understanding the details involved can be complex. Working with a mediation professional can help ensure that the form reflects the most critical issues in your case.

Why Mediation is a Valuable Step Before Filing a C100

Family mediation gives parents a valuable chance to resolve issues without the formal court process. With mediation, you have the opportunity to:

• Explore flexible solutions tailored to your child’s unique needs.

• Reduce the emotional and financial costs associated with prolonged court battles.

• Maintain a cooperative co-parenting relationship for your child’s benefit.

Mediation is often faster than the court process and empowers both parties to have an equal voice in shaping outcomes. At Ark Mediation, we have skilled and fully accredited mediators ready to guide you through these challenging discussions, offering a neutral perspective while keeping the focus on the best interests of your child.

Get Help with Your C100 Form and Mediation Process

Navigating child arrangements and understanding your obligations before the court can be overwhelming. If you need assistance with the C100 form, or if you’re considering mediation as a constructive approach, we’re here to help.

Ark Mediation offers a free 10-minute consultation to discuss your situation and explore the best next steps. Call us at 0330 043 6360 to book your consultation and start working towards a positive way forward for you and your family.

Taking proactive steps like mediation not only offers a resolution without the need for a court decision but can also lay the groundwork for a cooperative co-parenting relationship in the future. Contact us today, and let Ark Mediation support you in making the best choices for your family’s well-being.