Warning notice on child arrangements orders CA 1989 s. 11I
When making or varying a child arrangements order, the court must attach a warning notice about consequences of non-compliance. CA 1989 s. 11I.
11I Where the court makes (or varies) a child arrangements order, it is to attach to the child arrangements order (or the order varying the contact order) a notice warning of the consequences of failing to comply with the child arrangements order.
Text in force at .
Source: legislation.gov.uk — The National Archives (legislation.gov.uk), reproduced under licence Open Government Licence v3.0.
What it actually says
The court must attach a warning notice when it makes or varies a child arrangements order.
The notice warns of the consequences of failing to comply with the order.
The warning is attached to the order itself.
When it applies
- A parent is ordered to have contact with their child every weekend; the court attaches a warning notice.
- A parent is ordered to return the child after a holiday; the court attaches a warning notice.
- The court varies an existing child arrangements order to change the child's residence; the court attaches a warning notice.
- A child arrangements order includes a specific schedule for handovers; the court attaches a warning notice.
What this section does not say
- People might think this provision lists the specific penalties (e.g., fines or imprisonment) for non-compliance, but it only requires a warning of the consequences.
- People might think this provision applies to enforcement orders, but warning notices for enforcement orders are covered by section 11n.
- People might think the court has discretion to decide whether to attach a warning notice, but the provision says the court 'is to attach' a notice, making it mandatory.
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This page reproduces the text of CA 1989 s. 11I in force at the date shown and explains it in general terms. It is not legal advice and takes no account of the circumstances of your case, which can change the answer completely. For a live dispute, for limitation periods, and before taking any step in court, consult a qualified lawyer in England and Wales.