How Long Does a Form C2 Take To Be Processed?
May 2025
The time it takes for a Form C2 to be processed will depend on the type of request being made and how urgently the court considers it needs to be dealt with. Applications made by Form C2 are generally used in ongoing family court proceedings when someone needs to apply for permission to be part of the case, ask for new directions to be made, or they wish to make a fresh application where permission is required.
This summary provides general information and does not constitute legal advice on any individual circumstances.
If the application is routine and not considered urgent, it may take several weeks for the court to list a hearing or issue directions. Each family court operates with different capacity, so waiting times can vary depending on the location. In some courts, a response may be received within 2 to 4 weeks, while in others it can take significantly longer, particularly if the court is dealing with a high volume of cases.
If the Form C2 is submitted alongside another form, such as a C100 or C1A, it will usually be considered as part of those ongoing proceedings. The court will generally review all the documents together to determine whether a hearing is necessary and to set an appropriate timetable for how the case should progress. This helps ensure that all issues are dealt with in a coordinated way, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Can a Form C2 Be Treated as Urgent?
An application made by Form C2 can be treated as urgent if the circumstances justify it. This typically applies where there is an immediate risk to a child’s safety or welfare, such as concerns about harm, abduction, or the need to prevent a parent from removing a child from the jurisdiction. In such cases, the court has the power to act quickly to protect the child.
To request urgent consideration, the application must be clearly marked as urgent and include a detailed explanation of why the matter cannot wait. Supporting evidence, such as a statement outlining the risk or any relevant incidents, should also be provided wherever possible.
If the court accepts the urgency, a hearing may be scheduled at very short notice, such as within a few working days. The response time will depend on the nature of the case and the availability of a judge, but urgent applications are prioritised and dealt with as quickly as possible.
Factors That Affect Timing
There are several factors that can influence how long it takes for your application to be processed. These include the clarity and completeness of the application, the specific order or type of permission being requested, the urgency of the matter, and whether the other parties involved need to be given an opportunity to respond before a decision can be made.
A well-prepared application that clearly sets out what is being asked for and why is more likely to be dealt with efficiently. If important details are missing or the request is unclear, the court may issue directions asking for further information or clarification. This can lead to delays.
The nature of the application also plays a role. Some requests may be dealt with more quickly than others that require a fuller review or more detailed consideration. Where the application involves urgent child welfare concerns, it may be prioritised over less time-sensitive matters.
To minimise delays, it is important to ensure that all documents are properly completed, any necessary supporting evidence is included, and the application is clearly worded.
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