Form C2 — applications within existing children proceedings
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-31
What the C2 is for
Form C2 is the HMCTS form for applications within family proceedings about children that are already ongoing, or for things that cannot go on a C100. Typical uses:
- Applying for permission (leave) to start proceedings at all — for example a grandparent who does not automatically qualify to apply for a child arrangements order (s.10 Children Act 1989).
- Adding or removing parties to existing proceedings — joining a grandparent, new partner, or a local authority.
- Asking the court to reopen or vary orders, or seeking directions in a live case.
Fees
Family fees are listed on the gov.uk EX50 page. Following the July 2026 fee changes, the application notice fee in the family court is £195; an application for permission is treated differently — check the current EX50 table for the exact entry before filing, and apply for help with fees (EX160) if you are on a low income or qualifying benefits.
How to complete it
- State precisely what you want the court to do, and under which provision of the Children Act 1989 (if you know it).
- For permission applications, explain your connection to the child and why the application is in the child's interests.
- Attach supporting evidence (statements, chronology) rather than writing long explanations inside the form.
- File with the court handling the existing proceedings (or the nearest family court if there are none yet) and serve copies on all other parties.
After you file
The court will consider permission applications on paper first; if refused, you can normally ask for the decision to be reconsidered at a hearing. Once you are a party, you receive the full court bundle and orders, and you are expected to file your own statements and attend hearings.
C2 vs C100 — which one?
- Starting a new child arrangements / prohibited steps / specific issue application when proceedings don't exist → C100.
- Anything inside existing proceedings, or permission to apply when you're not automatically entitled → C2.
General information only, not legal advice.
YourFamilyCase.co.uk is an independent information directory — we are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to HMCTS, the judiciary, or gov.uk. This page is general information and is not legal advice. Court practice changes; always check the current EX50 fee table and consider getting advice from Support Through Court or a solicitor.
Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.