What is a PSO?

A prohibited steps order is a court order that prevents a parent from a certain activity relating to their child/ren and which also prohibits a parent from exercising their parental responsibility.

A prohibited steps order could prevent:

•  A child from moving school/nursery
• The child from coming into contact with another person e.g. your ex-partners new partner
• A parent moving the child outside the UK
• Changing the child's last name
• The parent moving the child from their home/local area
• A parent allowing the child to undergo risky medical treatment

How do you apply for a PSO?

To apply you must file a C100 Application and evidence that you have attempted mediation, unless you have a valid MIAM exemption.

If you and your ex-partner have existing court proceedings that are ongoing, the form you will need to fill out is a C2 Application.

What is an emergency PSO?

The order can also be applied on an emergency basis. In order for an urgent application to be made there must be "strong evidence or an imminent threat to the child". In these cases the application is made without notice meaning the respondent would not be aware that the application is being made or be present at the hearing.

If an order is granted on this basis then the court will arrange a further hearing where the respondent will have to be present once they have been  served with the application and emergency order made. 

How long will the PSO last?

A Prohibited Steps Order normally lasts until the child turns 16, but can be for a set amount of time, or until the child is 18 in limited circumstances.

When can you not apply for a PSO?

There are some cases when you will not be able to file a PSO, such as:

• If the child is 16 or older
• If the child is in the care of the local authority