Looking for help in your family court proceedings?Bridge The Gap is a free, community-built guide to UK family court, written by litigants and McKenzie Friends, for litigants. Real observations, plain English, and people who can help.
Assumption: "As the applicant, you can withdraw your C100 application whenever you want and the proceedings simply stop."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
Court Reality
Once a C100 is underway and Cafcass or social services are involved, the court has discretion over whether to allow you to withdraw. If there are welfare concerns or a Section 7 report is in progress, the court may not let you simply walk away — it can direct that the proceedings continue, sometimes with a different party taking over. Discontinuance is not automatic; it is a decision the court makes, and you should seek legal advice before asking.
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Bridge The Gap
You can't just pull a C100. The court decides.
As the applicant, you can withdraw your C100 application whenever you want and the proceedings simply stop.
Reality
Once a C100 is underway and Cafcass or social services are involved, the court has discretion over whether to allow you to withdraw.
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