Many separating parents manage co-parenting arrangements informally, without any court involvement. This works well when both parents can communicate and agree. But when arrangements break down or conflict makes agreement impossible, a Child Arrangements Order provides a legally binding framework.
What is a Child Arrangements Order?
A Child Arrangements Order (CAO) is a court order that sets out where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, and any other relevant arrangements. It replaced the old "residence" and "contact" orders in 2014.
Do you need one?
You do not need a CAO if both parents can agree and stick to arrangements. Many families co-parent perfectly well without one. A CAO becomes necessary when:
- You cannot agree on arrangements
- Arrangements are repeatedly not followed
- One parent is preventing the other from seeing the children
- There are concerns about a child's safety or welfare
- One parent wishes to relocate with the children
How to apply
Before applying to court for a CAO, you must generally attend a MIAM (a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) unless an exemption applies. The court application is made using form C100.