Child Arrangements Order for Grandparents

Grandparents in England and Wales do not have automatic contact rights and typically need court permission (leave) to apply for a Child Arrangements Order.

A Child Arrangements Order for grandparents is a legal tool that allows you to formalise visits, weekends, holidays, or even indirect contact such as phone calls and letters. It ensures that your relationship with your grandchildren is recognised and protected under the law while keeping the child's welfare as the top priority.

At Wembley Solicitors, we understand how important grandparents are in a child's life. Our team of family law solicitors in London has extensive experience helping grandparents secure Child Arrangements Orders. We understand that each family is unique, and we approach every case with empathy, professionalism, and dedication.

Need help applying for a Child Arrangements Order as a grandparent? Call Wembley Solicitors today on 020 3417 3700 for professional legal support.

Table of Contents

What Is a Child Arrangements Order for Grandparents?

A Child Arrangements Order for grandparents is a legal order from the family court that determines how and when grandparents can spend time with their grandchildren. It can include direct contact, such as visits or weekends together, and indirect contact, like phone calls, letters, or video chats.

The main purpose is to ensure the child maintains a meaningful relationship with their grandparents while prioritising the child's welfare.

Do Grandparents Have Automatic Rights to See Their Grandchildren?

No. Under UK law, grandparents do not automatically have the right to see their grandchildren. Any contact is generally at the discretion of the child's parents unless a court order is in place. If you are a grandparent seeking regular contact, you may need to apply for a Child Arrangements Order and, in some cases, request the court's permission (leave) before applying.

When Is Court Permission Needed to Apply for a CAO?

Grandparents usually need court permission to apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) if the child has not lived with them for a significant period or if other legal criteria are not met. Exceptions include:

• The child has lived with the grandparent for at least three years in the past five years.
• The grandparent already has a "lives with" order.

The court will assess whether your application is in the child's best interests before granting permission to proceed.

Why Is a Child Arrangements Order Important for Grandparents?

A CAO ensures that grandparents have formal, legally recognised contact with their grandchildren. It provides structure, clarity, and peace of mind, helping grandparents maintain a meaningful role in the child's life even during family breakdowns. Most importantly, it protects the child's welfare and ensures their relationship with extended family is valued and preserved.

How Can Grandparents Apply for a Child Arrangements Order?

Grandparents can apply for a Child Arrangements Order by first attempting mediation (MIAM), checking if court permission is needed, completing the C100 form, cooperating with CAFCASS assessments, and attending court hearings to establish suitable contact arrangements focused on the child's welfare.

Grandparents who wish to secure contact with their grandchildren can apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) through the family courts. The process usually involves the following steps:

1. Attempt Mediation First: Attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) to try resolving disputes without going to court.
2. Check Eligibility and Permission: Determine if you need court permission (leave) to apply, especially if the child has not lived with you for a significant period.
3. Complete the C100 Form: This is the official application for a CAO, where you explain your relationship with the child and why contact is in their best interests.
4. CAFCASS Assessment: The Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service may investigate and report on what arrangements are suitable for the child.
5. Court Hearing: If approved, the court will hold hearings, such as a First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA), to decide on the contact arrangements.

Throughout the process, legal guidance is highly recommended to ensure the application is strong, well-evidenced, and focused on the child's welfare.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Child Arrangements Order for Grandparents?

The process for a Child Arrangements Order for grandparents typically takes 6 to 10 months, depending on the family situation and court schedule. This timeframe includes mediation or MIAMs, CAFCASS assessments, and court hearings.

How Much Does a Child Arrangement Order Cost?

Applying for a Child Arrangements Order currently costs £263. If you're on a low income or receiving benefits, you may qualify for help with court fees.

Understanding the costs upfront helps grandparents plan effectively and ensures there are no surprises during the application process. Our solicitor can also advise if you qualify for fee reductions and help you submit your application correctly, saving time and avoiding mistakes.

Are Grandparents Required to Attend Mediation Before Applying for a Court Order?

Yes. The Family Procedure Rules require that all parties attempt non-court dispute resolution before applying for a Child Arrangements Order. Grandparents should attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), which helps families reach an agreement without involving the courts. Even if mediation doesn't lead to an agreement, attending a MIAM is usually mandatory for court proceedings.

How Does CAFCASS Help in a Grandparent CAO Application?

CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) is an independent body that assists the court in child arrangements cases. They will:

• Conduct background checks with police and Children's Services.
• Speak with all parties, including the child, to gather their views.
• Prepare a report and recommendations for the court, helping judges decide what is in the child's best interests.

What Contact Can Grandparents Expect Under a Child Arrangements Order?

Contact under a Child Arrangements Order varies depending on what the court considers best for the child. Grandparents may have direct contact, such as visits, weekends, overnight stays, or holidays, and/or indirect contact, including phone calls, video chats, letters, or gifts. Temporary arrangements can be made through interim orders, while final orders establish long-term contact plans.

How Can Wembley Solicitors Help Grandparents with a CAO?

At Wembley Solicitors, we provide expert guidance for grandparents seeking a Child Arrangements Order. Our services include:

• Assessing whether you need permission to apply.
• Helping complete and submit the C100 form.
• Supporting mediation and MIAM sessions.
• Representing you in court and working with CAFCASS to ensure your voice is heard.
• Advising on both direct and indirect contact arrangements tailored to your family situation.

We aim to protect your relationship with your grandchildren while prioritising their welfare and stability.

Contact Wembley Solicitors for a Child Arrangements Order

Many grandparents in England and Wales want to maintain a close relationship with their grandchildren. However, unlike parents, grandparents do not automatically have legal rights to see their grandchildren. If you want to secure regular contact or even residency, you may need to apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO).

Grandparents seeking a Child Arrangements Order can speak to Wembley Solicitors now at 020 3417 3700 for professional legal support.

Our specialist family law solicitors in London will guide you through the entire process, from mediation sessions and completing Form C100 to court representation.