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Child Arrangements and Custody

When parents separate, the law focuses on what is best for the child. Most disagreements are resolved through mediation, but where that fails you can apply to the family court for a Child Arrangements Order setting out where the child lives and how they spend time with each parent.

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What this category covers

  • Family mediation (MIAM) before court
  • Applying for a Child Arrangements Order (C100)
  • Specific issue and prohibited steps orders
  • Drafting a parenting plan
  • Enforcing existing court orders

Recommended providers

Online service
From £490

amicable

An app and coaching service designed for couples who want to separate amicably without solicitors. Strong on mediation and co-parenting plans.

  • Couples-focused (one fee for both partners)
  • Trained divorce coaches included
  • Court-ready financial consent orders
  • Free 15-minute discovery call
CharityGovernment-backed
From £100

National Family Mediation

The largest non-profit family mediation provider in England and Wales. MIAM-accredited and accepts the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme (£500 government contribution).

  • MIAM appointments from £100
  • Eligible for £500 voucher scheme
  • Operates across England and Wales
  • Children Inclusive Mediation available
Directory
Free directory

Resolution Find a Mediator

Directory of accredited family mediators who follow the Resolution Code of Practice. Search by postcode, specialism and language.

  • All listed mediators are Resolution members
  • Filter by specialism (children, finances, both)
  • Direct contact details, no middleman fee
  • Free to use
Directory
Free directory

Law Society Find a Solicitor

Official Law Society directory of all SRA-regulated solicitors in England and Wales. Filter by specialism, location and language.

  • Every listed firm is SRA-regulated
  • Filter by 'family' specialism
  • Free to search and contact
  • Includes accreditations and memberships

Common questions

Do I have to try mediation before going to court?
Yes, in almost all cases. You must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for a Child Arrangements Order. Exemptions apply for domestic abuse, urgent safeguarding concerns and a few other limited situations.
How much does it cost to apply for a Child Arrangements Order?
The court fee is currently £255 for a C100 application. If you use a solicitor, expect to pay between £1,500 and £5,000+ depending on complexity. Some applicants represent themselves (litigants in person) to keep costs down.
What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between separated parents covering things like school holidays, contact arrangements, medical decisions and communication. It is not legally binding on its own, but it can be turned into a Consent Order via the family court.
Disclaimer: Information on this page is general guidance only. It is not legal advice. Always consult a regulated solicitor about your specific circumstances. Affiliate relationships do not influence which providers we list or how we describe them.