Completing a Form C7: Do You Oppose the Application?
May 2025
If you’ve received a Form C7 to complete, it means someone has made an application to the Family Court involving a child. The Form C7 is your opportunity to respond. One of the key questions it asks is whether you oppose the application being made. Understanding how to answer this question is essential, as your response will guide the court’s initial approach to the case.
This summary provides general information and does not constitute legal advice on any individual circumstances.
A Form C7 is used by respondents in family court proceedings to reply to an application concerning a child. It gives you the chance to confirm your relationship to the child, acknowledge the application, and express whether you agree or disagree with what is being requested.
The question “Do you oppose the application?” is a central part of the form. If you tick ‘Yes’, the court will understand that the matter is contested and will likely schedule further hearings to explore the issues in more detail. If you tick ‘No’, this indicates you do not object to the application and may lead to the case being resolved more quickly.
What Does It Mean to Oppose the Application?
Opposing the application means you disagree with some or all of the orders being requested. This might be because you have concerns about the arrangements being proposed for the child, or because you believe an alternative arrangement would be better. For example, if the applicant is seeking to reduce your time with the child, or if they are requesting sole decision-making responsibility, you may feel it necessary to contest the application.
You should only tick ‘Yes’ to this question if you genuinely disagree with the proposed orders. It’s important to provide clear reasons for your opposition and be ready to present evidence or arguments to support your position as the case moves forward.
How Will the Court Respond if You Oppose the Application?
If you confirm that you oppose the application, the court will consider your response. Unless it feels that further mediation may be best at that time, it will then list the matter for a First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA), where the court will look at the main issues in disagreement, whether those can be narrowed, what steps are required to take the matter forward to a final hearing, and if there are any safeguarding concerns in the meantime.
In more complex cases, the court may direct the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) to prepare a report or order statements from both parties. The aim is to gather enough information to make decisions that are in the child’s best interests. Opposing an application does not mean a court battle is inevitable, but it does signal that a more detailed process may be necessary.
Should You Always Oppose an Application If You Have Concerns?
Not necessarily. It is often possible to raise concerns or suggest changes without fully opposing the application. In some cases, parties are able to agree on arrangements with some negotiation or through mediation, avoiding the need for lengthy court involvement. The court generally encourages cooperation wherever possible and will expect you to have considered alternative ways to resolve disagreements.
If you are unsure whether to oppose the application, it is wise to seek legal advice before submitting the Form C7. A solicitor can help you weigh your options and decide on the best course of action based on the details of your case.
How Can Fullers Help?
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