The recent decision in Re C (Child Arrangements Orders; Domestic Abuse; Child Focused Court) [2026] EWCA Civ 1216, for which Louise MacLynn KC and Edward Flood provided written submissions to the court on behalf of Cafcass England and Cafcass Cymru raises important issues about the operation of the Family Court’s new Child Focused Court model, for determining private law children cases, particularly where domestic abuse issues are raised.  

The lead judgment was given by Sir Stephen Cobb, President of the Family Division.  It is the first Court of Appeal decision to consider the Child Focused Court model and provides guidance on the continuing application of domestic abuse principles, including Practice Direct 12 J, within that framework.