What is a C2 Form and how is it used by the family courts?

What is a C2 application form?

Under the Children Act 1989, a C2 application form is a legal application to a family court for requests regarding children. It can be used to start new proceedings when permission to make the application is required, for example if you are a Grandparent; to request a specific order within ongoing proceedings; or to join or become a party to an existing case.

The C2 application allows individuals to make applications that affect a child’s upbringing, safety, and contact with family members.

What is a C2 form used for in family court?

A C2 application can be used to:

• begin proceedings if you do not automatically have the legal right to request them, for example grandparents who do not already have legal parental responsibility
• to apply for changes to orders already agreed or to request specific arrangements be made within the case - this could pertain to child custody arrangements and sole custody requests
• to join or leave a case, however the court will need to approve any requests before you can join/leave proceedings.

When would you need a C2 application?

You may need a C2 application if you are an extended family member but wish to be involved in the case. This could include:

• Grandparents who want contact with their grandchildren
• Step parents who have been involved in the child’s upbringing
• Other relatives such as aunts and uncles who have played a significant role in the child's life
• Close family friends who have an established relationship with the child

Parents, or those with parental responsibility, may also need a C2 form if they wish the court to amend their child’s custody arrangements, though this can only be done while proceedings are ongoing.

Should they wish to change their arrangements after initial proceedings are concluded, they will need to submit a different application, known as a C100 form.

Completing a C2 application

To start a C2 application for family court, you will need to provide all the relevant information and evidence, where applicable. This includes:

• the case number
• the name of the court
• your name and contact information,
• an explanation of the specific order or directions you are asking the court to consider and why
• If applicable, a supporting statement explaining how your application is in the child's best interests
• any supporting documents
• the required court fee

The first step is gathering the key details of the case so those who receive your application can guide your request, and an explanation of the request you are making and why you are making it. It is important to note that within family court, decisions are made in the child's best interests and as such any request you make should also be in the child's best interests.

Your request should include a supporting statement to provide more detail and rationale for your application, and it is critical that you carefully consider what you say. It is strongly recommended that you have the support of an expert family lawyer when drafting these documents; our leading solicitors can help you explain your circumstances and wishes in a way that will best be received by the courts and can help you submit your application.

C2 application forms can be submitted in person or by post. Many courts accept scanned copies of signed forms via email, and you can find the correct email address for your local family court on the Find a Court or Tribunal service. For the court fees required you can pay online, in person, or by phone using your card, cheque, or postal order as instructed by the court.

What are the C2 application fees?

C2 application fees differ in price depending on the intended purpose of your application and your personal circumstances. As of April 2025, applications by consent (where all parties agree on the request and it is not contested) or applications without notice are charged at £60. Applications on notice, where no other fee has been specified, will cost £190.

There might be no fees in some cases, such as if you are already a party to the proceedings and are asking for directions, or you may be eligible for exemptions or support if you have a low income or receive certain benefits. You can check your eligibility and apply for help using form EX160.

Support in making a C2 application to the family court

Submitting a C2 application to the courts is a very precise process and can be difficult to complete alone. Our team of family law experts have extensive experience in supporting parents and guardians in this process and helping them ensure that their request is submitted correctly and in the best form it can be to give you the best chance of making the change you want for your child.

Our industry leading family law team can also offer you bespoke advice on all areas of family law and how the law may apply to your situation. We understand how turbulent this time can be and are always on hand to offer compassionate guidance.

Call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a C2 form take to process?

The application process can take 12 months or more to complete including a hearing, however routine matters may be heard in 6-12 weeks. Some factors that may influence how long your application takes include the complexity of your case, case load of the court, and any potential need for Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service reports or other evidence.

What is a C2 child arrangement order?

A C2 application is not a court order itself, but rather an application to the court. A C2 form is used when a parent or someone with parental responsibility needs to request a new arrangement or adapt a current arrangement whilst the proceedings are still open.

How do courts decide on a child arrangement order?

The family court’s main priority is the welfare of the child, so every decision is based on this, not what is easiest or most convenient for the adults involved. There is no ‘standard’ arrangement as every child is unique and so is every situation.

To help guide their decision, judges use the ‘welfare checklist' from the Children Act 1989. This includes:

• the child’s wishes and feelings (depending on their age and understanding)
• the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the child
• the impact of any changes in the child's life
• the ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs
• any risk of harm or history of harm