Form 16: Application to Prohibit Relocation of a Child
Form 16 is the specific application used when a guardian wants the court to prohibit a proposed relocation of a child in the circumstances covered by the Family Law Act.
Think: “I received relocation notice and I am asking the court to stop the child’s relocation.”
This page explains the form in everyday language and links back to the official BC source.
Why this guide exists: I went through BC family court myself and found the forms harder to understand than they needed to be.
When Form 16 fits
This form is for the Family Law Act relocation process where there is an existing written agreement or court order about parenting arrangements and a guardian has given notice of a proposed relocation.
What if there is no existing parenting agreement or order?
The official instructions say Form 16 may not be the right route. Depending on the issue, a person may instead need Form 15 or Form 3 to deal with the child’s residence or parenting arrangements.
What happens after you file?
Form 16 requires a court appearance. The other party normally receives notice and can respond. The judge then decides the application using the Family Law Act relocation rules and the child’s best interests.
Plain-English timing picture
- A relocating guardian generally gives at least 60 days’ written notice.
- A guardian objecting under section 69 generally has 30 days after receiving that notice to file the application to prohibit relocation.
- Because those deadlines are important, do not leave this form until the last minute.
Where do I file it?
File it with the Provincial Court registry handling your case, unless the official form or a court order tells you otherwise. A registry is the court office that accepts and processes documents. Registry staff can explain filing procedure, but they cannot give legal advice.