Child Arrangements Orders in the UK: How They Work
Updated: 14 hours ago
Child arrangements orders are court orders that decide where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent and how other contact takes place, such as phone or video calls. A court makes one when parents or guardians cannot agree after a separation or divorce.
The main purpose of child arrangements orders is to protect the child's welfare and to put their needs first.
When might you need a child arrangements order?
Parents usually seek an order when they cannot agree on:
Living arrangements: which parent the child lives with, or whether time is shared between both parents.
Contact arrangements: how and when the child spends time with the parent they do not live with.
Other family contact: contact with extended family, such as grandparents, where needed.
If talks and mediation fail, applying for an order can give a legally binding answer.
What does a child arrangements order cover?
An order can cover many parts of a child's care and upbringing.
Living arrangements
The court may decide:
which parent the child lives with full time
whether the child divides time between both homes
details for holidays, weekends and school breaks
Contact arrangements
The order can also set out:
how often the other parent sees the child, such as weekly or fortnightly
the type of contact, such as visits, overnight stays or calls
any limits or supervised contact if needed for the child's safety
Other orders the court can make
A child arrangements order is one of several orders under section 8 of the Children Act 1989. You can read the law on legislation.gov.uk. Two others are often mentioned:
Prohibited steps order: stops one parent taking a specific step without the court's approval. See our guide to a prohibited steps order.
Specific issue order: asks the court to decide a particular question, such as which school a child attends.
Parental responsibility
Parental responsibility means the legal rights and duties a parent has for a child. A mother usually has it automatically. A father may have it too, depending on his situation. If you share it with an ex-partner, you both usually have a say in major decisions. If you are unsure whether you have it, take legal advice.
How does the court decide?
The court's main concern is the child's welfare. Judges use the Welfare Checklist in the Children Act 1989. Key points include:
The child's needs: physical, emotional and educational.
The child's wishes and feelings: if the child is mature enough, their views may be considered.
The child's safety: any risk of harm.
The child's relationships: the bond with each parent and other important relatives.
The impact of change: how a change in living or contact might affect stability.
The court always decides what is in the child's best interests.
How to apply for a child arrangements order
The process generally follows these steps. The government explains it on GOV.UK.
1. Try mediation
Before you apply, you must usually attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This explores whether you can settle the matter without going to court.
2. Submit an application
If mediation does not work, you can apply to the court on form C100. If there are safety concerns, such as domestic abuse, you may not have to try mediation first.
3. Attend court hearings
The court will arrange hearings to review evidence and hear from both sides. It may also ask for views from professionals, such as Cafcass officers, to help it decide. A final order is made at the end of the case.
How long does an order last?
An order usually stays in place until the child turns 16, unless the court says otherwise. In some cases it can last until 18.
If things change a lot, either party can ask the court to vary or end the order.
What if someone breaks the order?
If one party does not follow a child arrangements order, the other can:
Apply for enforcement: ask the court to take action so the order is followed.
Give evidence of breaches: for example missed visits or a failure to allow agreed contact.
The court may impose penalties, such as fines or make-up time. In serious cases it may change the order to better serve the child.
Can a local authority be involved?
Sometimes a local authority becomes involved if there are concerns about a child's safety. That is a different process from a dispute between parents. If it applies to you, get legal advice quickly.
How can Canko Law Firm help?
Family law disputes are sensitive. We aim to reach a result that puts the child's welfare first. Our solicitors can help with:
Legal advice: helping you understand your rights and options.
Mediation support: helping you through the mediation process.
Preparing your application: making sure it is thorough and accurate.
Court representation: speaking for you at hearings.
Why choose Canko Law Firm?
Child-centred approach: we put the child's best interests first.
Experience: our solicitors handle complex family law matters.
Cross-border work: if your case involves moving a child abroad, we can help.
Contact us today
If you need help applying for child arrangements orders or resolving a dispute about your child's care, Canko Law Firm can guide you. Contact us to arrange a consultation and take the first step towards a fair and binding arrangement for your family.
