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: "Filing a C100 guarantees your children's wishes and feelings will be heard directly by the court."
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
A C100 starts the proceedings, but it does not guarantee how the court will hear your children's voices. Since the PD 36G pilot scheme (in force until 31 March 2027), litigants in person can generate and file a C100 online for section 8 orders via the HMCTS online system (PD 36G, para 1.2). Legally represented applicants must use the separate PD 36ZD system instead (PD 36G, para 2.3). The court often directs a Section 7 report (Cafcass or social services) in which the children's views are gathered and reported by a professional, rather than children being heard directly. The process can also shift into an investigation of the parents — particularly where allegations are raised. Filing is the start, not the outcome.
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Bridge The Gap
A C100 starts the process. It doesn't decide how voices are heard.
Filing a C100 guarantees your children's wishes and feelings will be heard directly by the court.
Reality
A C100 starts the proceedings, but it does not guarantee how the court will hear your children's voices. 2). 3).
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