Family Court Guides

Plain-English guides for people representing themselves in family court. Court Compass covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. These guides are information, not legal advice.

• C100 Form Explained | Child Arrangements Order Help
  The C100 form starts your children case in England and Wales. Here is what it asks, where the common mistakes are, and how to get it right the first time.
• What Happens After You Submit a C100
  Sent your C100? Here is what happens next in England and Wales, from Cafcass safeguarding checks and your MIAM to the first hearing (FHDRA).
• How Family Court Works in Northern Ireland
  The law, the courts, Form C1, fees, Court Children's Officer reports and how Northern Ireland differs from England and Wales.
• How to Represent Yourself in Family Court
  Representing yourself in family court is hard. But it is possible. Here is what you need to know before your first hearing, and what judges actually look for.
• Position Statements Family Court Explained
  A position statement tells the judge where you stand before a hearing. Here is what to include, what to leave out, and the mistakes that damage your case.
• Family Court Witness Statement Guide
  Your witness statement is your evidence. Here is what to include, how to structure it, and the mistakes that make judges disbelieve what you are saying.