What is a C2 application in family law? A complete guide

What is a C2 application?

A C2 application in family law is a court form used when making a request related to an existing case, or a child arrangement order.

A C2 application is used for various purposes, including asking for permission to start proceedings, requesting an order or direction in ongoing proceedings, or to join or leave proceedings. The C2 form is used in family court matters involving children under the Children Act 1989 potentially matters like child custody, visitation rights or parental responsibility. Essentially, it’s a way to add or modify elements within an already active legal case.

When do you need a C2 application?

There are three reasons why a C2 application may be used. These are when:

1. Someone wants to apply to the court for a child arrangement order, but doesn’t have an automatic right to do so if they are not a parent. They will need permission to start proceedings from the court, which they can request by using a C2 form.
2. An existing case is underway, e.g., a parent is applying for a contact order, but updates need to be made during ongoing proceedings. In this instance a C2 form can be used to request new orders or directions for example to prevent a parent from moving the child to a new school.
3. A person wants to be added to an existing case as a party for example, a stepparent living with the child for a certain period. In this case they can use a C2 form to request to join existing proceedings. Plus if a party no longer wants to be part of the case, they can use the form to enable them to leave existing proceedings.

Submitting a C2 application, process and tips

A C2 application, typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks for a first hearing to be listed. However, the entire process, from application to concluding arrangements, can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months or even longer. The time varies depending on the complexity of the case, the availability of court resources, and whether there are any safeguarding concerns, or urgent circumstances.

There are several steps to submitting a C2 family application. It’s best to check the court’s specific instructions first – as the process may vary. Fortunately the C2 form is relatively short, but it does require accuracy when completing it. And don’t forget to include any supporting documents like witness statements, draft orders or other relevant evidence. Check with the court for how many copies will be needed and how they would prefer everything was submitted to them – email, in person or by post.

C2 application fees and court costs

Next, you must pay a fee with your application. The cost of a C2 application depends on whether the application is made with notice, or without notice, and whether it’s within existing proceedings or to start new ones. Generally, the fee for a C2 application is either £60 (by consent) or £190. Payment is usually by cheque, or over the telephone. You may be eligible to pay a reduced fee or even not have to pay at all, so it’s worth you checking that first. Once everything has been submitted and any fee paid, the court will process your C2 application.

Jonathan Miller, Senior Solicitor in our Family Department, said. “Whilst the 8-page C2 application form can be easily downloaded from a government website – you must take care to complete it correctly with factual information, including the names and addresses for all parties involved. And you must clearly state the reason for the application – start proceeding, make changes to existing order, or to join or leave existing proceedings.”

Jonathan continues. “Because of the importance of the form and its outcome, we advise getting help with your application from a family law solicitor. Not only do we have expertise in navigating the legal process, preparing and serving the application and presenting your case effectively ensuring that all relevant parties are notified, but we can also help you when it comes to generating expert reports – all of which will help to speed up the process.”

Fixed fee initial meeting for support and advice

At Alsters Kelley, we are dedicated to resolving family issues in a constructive way with the aim of ensuring your legal rights are protected and that you get a better outcome. We offer an initial fixed fee meeting for £300 plus VAT (20%), total £360.00. Fixed fee meetings generally last between one to two hours. For timely and specialist advice and support, please contact Jonathan Miller on 01926 356000, email jonathan.miller@alsterskelley.com.