Child arrangements at the family court in Manchester
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: Manchester Civil Justice Centre (Civil and Family Courts), 1 Bridge Street West, Manchester, Manchester, M60 9DJ
- Our full guide to Manchester Civil Justice Centre (Civil and Family Courts)
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 Manchester
- Support services in Manchester
- Finding a solicitor near Manchester
- Finding a mediator near Manchester
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.