Child Arrangements — The Complete Guide for Litigants in Person

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Facing a child arrangements case without a solicitor? This guide walks you through every stage of the process — in plain English, with no jargon.

Written by a qualified non-practising solicitor who has also been a litigant in person himself, this is the most comprehensive guide available for parents representing themselves in child arrangements proceedings in England and Wales.

What's inside — 12 chapters, 50 pages:

The MIAM, Form FM5, and when exemptions apply

Completing the C100 application — section by section, with common mistakes to avoid

What happens after you apply — the full timeline to your first hearing

CAFCASS — who they are, what the safeguarding call involves, and how to work with them effectively

The welfare checklist — all seven factors explained, with the 2025 law change on parental involvement

The FHDRA — what the judge is trying to achieve and what to say

The Dispute Resolution Appointment — how to prepare and when to settle

Section 7 reports — how they are prepared, what they contain, and how to challenge them

Your witness statement — full structure, practical guidance, and what judges look for

The final hearing — giving evidence, cross-examination, and closing submissions

After the order — enforcement, variation, and relocation

Also includes: a complete case checklist from C100 to final order, example scripts for what to say at hearings, and guidance on the October 2025 Government announcement on repealing the presumption of parental involvement.

Updated early 2026 · England and Wales only · 50 pages · 12 chapters

This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. For support specific to your situation, visit equaljustice.legal for a free 10-minute scoping call.