Official form guide
Application to vary or discharge an order related to Arrangements for Children
This form is used when you need a change made to an existing court order concerning children's arrangements. It allows you to either alter the terms of that order or completely remove (discharge) it from the court record.
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Form Overview
Courts Service of Ireland - Application to vary or discharge an order related to Arrangements for Children
This form is used when you need a change made to an existing court order concerning children's arrangements. It allows you to either alter the terms of that order or completely remove (discharge) it from the court record.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Always include a copy of the original court order with your application.
- 2Not citing the correct original Court Order number.
- 3Failing to clearly state whether you are 'Varying' or 'Discharging'.
- 4Leaving out details about the children involved (names/DOBs).
- 5Submitting an outdated version of the form.
Plain English
If a current court decision about where your children live, who they see, or how decisions are made needs tweaking, use this form. You are asking the Courts Service to update what is already legally set out for your family.
Submission Date
- Filing date: While there isn't a universal deadline, aim to file this as soon as the change in circumstances occurs. If you have a hearing date set, submit it well before that date.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
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What this form is for
- You need a specific change made to an existing court order regarding your children.
- The current order details are correct, but the terms (like custody or contact) need adjustment.
- You want the entire court order removed from the record, not just modified.
- Your situation has changed since the original order was issued.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
New Order Required
If there is no existing arrangement order at all.
✓ Check if you are applying for an initial order or a change/discharge.
Discharge Only
When you just want the old order gone, but don't need a replacement yet.
✓ Ensure the form allows for 'Discharge only' selection.
(Likely a specific Discharge Form)
Varying Contact Details
If the core arrangement is fine, but contact times/locations need tweaking.
✓ Check if the variation section covers minor details vs major changes.
Not confirmed in official source
When unsure which specific form number applies to your exact change.
✓ Refer back to the Courts Service guidance page for confirmation.
Deadline or filing window
While there isn't a universal deadline, aim to file this as soon as the change in circumstances occurs. If you have a hearing date set, submit it well before that date.
Before you submit
- 1Have you clearly stated whether you are applying to VARY or DISCHARGE the order?
- 2Is the full name and address of every child covered by the order listed?
- 3Are all parties involved (parents, guardians) correctly named on the form?
- 4Did you provide a clear, detailed reason for the requested change/discharge?
- 5Have you attached copies of the original court order(s)?
- 6Is your signature present and legible?
How to file this form
- 1Complete all sections of the Application to vary or discharge an order.
- 2Attach supporting evidence (e.g., correspondence, school reports) as required.
- 3Sign the form where indicated.
- 4Submit the completed package to the relevant Courts Service office (or via the designated online portal).
- 5Pay any necessary filing fee when submitting.
Known limitations
- 1This form does not guarantee that the court will agree with your request.
- 2It is for varying or discharging an *existing* order; it isn't for setting up arrangements from scratch (unless stated).
- 3The required supporting documentation varies based on the specific nature of the change.
- 4Not confirmed in official source: Whether this form can be used if there are multiple overlapping orders.
Field map
Compact field-by-field guide
Proceedings
3 items
The names of the parties exactly as they appear on the originating document.
The court record number for the case, if one has been assigned.
The court and the office where the document is being filed.
Substance
2 items
What you are asking the court to do, or the information the form requires.
The facts relied on and any documents exhibited with the filing.
Execution
1 items
Signed, sworn or certified as the form requires, with proof of service where needed.
Almost done reviewing the fields?
Fillable formOpen in Editor->This application is used specifically for changes to existing court orders about children's arrangements. It allows you to either change the order or remove it entirely.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Check the date of the current version printed on the top of the document.
- Verify if there are new boxes or sections related to COVID-19 arrangements (if applicable).
- Confirm the required fee amount listed on the form matches current Courts Service rates.
- Ensure the section for 'Reason for Application' has updated guidance notes.
- Look for any changes in how you must reference the original court order.
Quick Facts
Form Details
- Revision date
- 02/09/25
Sources
- SRCIssued by: Courts Service of Ireland (COURTS)
- SRCForm Name: Application to vary or discharge an order related to Arrangements for Children
- SRCPurpose: To formally request a change or removal of existing child arrangement orders.
- SRCContext: Used within the Irish judicial system regarding family matters.
Common confusion points
Confusing 'Vary' vs. 'Discharge': Vary means change; Discharge means remove completely.
Not knowing if you need to attach a new agreement: If you have a new written agreement, attach it.
Thinking this form covers everything: It is focused on the *order*; other forms might be needed for specific consents or hearings.
Not knowing which court office to send it to: Check where your original order was issued.
Source transparency
Copyright & Licensing — Irish Government Forms
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