Child arrangements at the family court in Hertfordshire
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-31
The application
Applying for a child arrangements order (who a child lives with or spends time with) starts with form C100. Before you file you normally need to attend a MIAM or show an exemption — domestic abuse and urgency are common exemptions. Cafcass safeguards-checks the children after issue; most cases settle or are decided at the FHDRA (first hearing).
- Form: C100 on gov.uk
- Fee: £270 (C100) — Help with Fees (EX160) if on low income
- Where to file: Watford County Court and Family Court, 10 King Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0BW
- Our full guide to Watford County Court and Family Court
What happens after you file
1. The court issues the application and lists a first hearing (usually 4–8 weeks out). 2. You serve the other party (or the court does) — service rules matter; see the service guide. 3. Safeguarding/enquiries as applicable (Cafcass for children cases; FMVS mediation offer). 4. First hearing (FHDRA/FDR/directions) — most cases settle or get narrowed here.
Getting help in Hertfordshire
- Support services in Hertfordshire
- Finding a solicitor near Hertfordshire
- Finding a mediator near Hertfordshire
General information only — not legal advice. Fees per SI 2026/642 (in force 13 July 2026). Source: gov.uk form pages, HMCTS court data. Confirm the current fee before filing.
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.