UKWhat is a specific issue order and when would I need one?
A specific issue order is a court order under the Children Act 1989 that decides a particular question about a child’s upbringing, such as schooling, medical treatment, or changing their surname.
What the Law Says
A specific issue order is one of several types of 'child arrangements orders' defined in the Children Act 1989. It allows the court to determine a specific question that has arisen — or is likely to arise — in connection with the exercise of parental responsibility.
It is used when parents or others with parental responsibility disagree on an important but narrow aspect of a child’s life — for example, whether the child should attend a particular school, undergo elective surgery, move abroad, or change their name.
The court’s decision must always prioritise the child’s welfare as the paramount consideration. The judge will consider factors including the child’s wishes and feelings (depending on age and understanding), physical and emotional needs, and the likely effect of any change in circumstances.
Unlike some other orders, there is no fixed time limit for applying for a specific issue order — it can be sought at any time while the child is under 18, and in exceptional cases even beyond that if the issue remains live.
Statutory TextIn this Part, 'order' means— (a) a residence order; (b) a contact order; (c) a specific issue order; (d) a prohibited steps order;
— Children Act 1989, s. 8 — Interpretation
Statutory TextWhere by virtue of this Part a court is considering whether to make, vary or discharge any order with respect to a child, the child's welfare shall be the court's paramount consideration.
— Children Act 1989, s. 1(1) — Welfare principle
What to Do
Check if you have parental responsibility — only those with it (or permission from the court) may apply.
Try mediation first — it’s usually required before issuing court proceedings unless exempt.
Fill in Form C100 and pay the £232 fee (or apply for help with fees if eligible).
File the application at your local Family Court and serve copies on all respondents.
Attend the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA), where the court will explore settlement or set a timetable for evidence and hearing.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.