Specific Issue Orders: What they are, how they work and how we can help

3 July 2026

Mander Hadley guides parents through the complexities of a Specific Issue Order (SIO), a court order that is used in the UK to determine a particular question about a child’s upbringing when parents cannot agree.

An SIO applies when a specific dispute arises and resolution is needed in the child’s best interests, rather than for ongoing care arrangements.

Acting for parents on either side of these disputes, Mander Hadley provides clear, strategic legal support tailored to each family’s circumstances.

 What Is a Specific Issue Order?

An SIO in the England and Wales is a court decision about one clearly defined question affecting a child, such as school, medical treatment or travel, where parents cannot agree on a decision.

In law, a specific issue means a single, identifiable point of dispute rather than overall child care arrangements.

This is unlike a Child Arrangements Order (CAO), which sets out where a child lives or spends time, or a Prohibited Steps Order PSO, which prevents a parent from taking a particular action. An SIO resolves a targeted decision.

When would a court grant a Specific Issue Order?

An SIO can resolve a single disagreement about your child’s upbringing when parents cannot reach an agreement.

For example, if you cannot agree on your child’s school, you may apply for an SIO and ask the court to decide which school they should attend.

If the dispute concerns relocation, either within the UK or overseas, you may apply for an SIO seeking permission for the move.

Where parents disagree about medical treatment, an SIO can ask the court to authorise or prevent a specific course of care.

It can also be used where parents disagree about religious upbringing, including whether a child should be raised within a particular faith.

If there is a disagreement about changing or retaining a child’s name, the court can be asked to make a decision with an SIO.

An SIO may also help resolve disputes about travel abroad, including whether one parent can take a child overseas without the other parent’s consent, in this instance it is imperative to seek legal advice.

What does the process involve?

Before the court will consider an application for an SIO, you must attempt or consider a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) to see if the dispute can be resolved outside of court.

If an agreement cannot be reached through mediation, you will need to submit a C100 form. This is a legal document that is used to apply for a court order in England and Wales for the family court.

If the C100 is granted, the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) will appoint social workers to advise the court on what is safe and in the best interests of the child.

The case will then go to court, where a Judge will review the evidence and help both parties reach an agreement. The Judge will make a legally binding decision that is in the best interests of the child.

Mander Hadley can advise whether your circumstances qualify for an expedited application and guide you through each stage

How long does a specific issue order take?

In straightforward cases, an SIO typically takes around eight to 16 weeks from the application to the final order. The first hearing should be held within four to six weeks of the application, with decisions being made shortly after.

However, contested cases can take between four and nine months to complete as there are added steps to these cases.

How much does a Specific Issue Order cost?

In England and Wales, the court fee for applying for a Specific Issue Order using a C100 form is currently £255. There is no separate charge for CAFCASS involvement, as their safeguarding and reporting role is part of the court process.

However, SIO solicitor costs can vary depending on complexity. Straightforward cases may cost a few hundred pounds, while more contested matters can be more costly.

For a clear, tailored estimate of specific issue order costs in England and Wales, contact Mander Hadley’s family law team. We’ll be happy to discuss your situation and likely fees with no obligation.

What if the other parent does not follow the order?

If a parent breaches an SIO, it is a serious matter as the court takes non-compliance seriously. You can apply to enforce the order, usually by issuing a contempt of court application. If proven, the court may impose penalties including fines, enforcement directions and, in serious cases, imprisonment.

Where circumstances have changed, the other parent should not ignore the order. They must apply for a variation. The court can amend arrangements if it is in the child’s best interests but until then, the original order remains binding.

There is also a right to challenge decisions by way of a specific issue order appeal, but only on limited grounds, such as legal error or procedural unfairness. This cannot be done simply because one party disagrees with the outcome.

If you need help enforcing a specific issue order or responding to a breach, contact our family law team today for urgent, practical guidance.

Specific Issue Order Solicitors in Coventry, Kenilworth and Warwickshire

If you are considering applying for a Specific Issue Order in Warwickshire, Coventry, or Kenilworth, get in touch with one of our talented SIO solicitors.

Our talented team can help act for both applicants and respondents.

Mander Hadley has been practising since 1901. We have over a hundred years of experience dealing with sensitive family matters.

Get in touch today for dedicated advice on Specific Issue Orders.