1. Where do I go? Where can I meet my solicitor?
If you are going to Court on a family matter you will be allocated a Court where your hearings will be heard. If you have a solicitor they will be able to direct you to your specific Court. If you do not have a solicitor you can search on the Court Tribunal Website – https://courttribunalfinder.service.gov.uk/search/.
Each Court will have an ‘Usher’s Point’. When you arrive at the Court you will have to go through security, at this point you can ask them to direct you to the Usher’s Point. Once you get to the ushers point you can check in with the usher and they will direct you to the correct floor and Court room. The usher can call for your solicitor to meet you at the Usher’s Point if you haven’t arranged to meet them at an alternate location.
2. What should I wear?
It would be appropriate to dress formally. If you do not own a suit, this shouldn’t be a problem, a shirt and trousers or skirt is still acceptable. If you are uncertain speak to your solicitor and they will be able to tell you what exactly is expected. Although most of us wouldn’t like to think it, first impressions do count. Judges are human too!
3. What should I call the Judge
This depends on the level of Judge. You will be notified on any paperwork that you receive who the hearing will be before, or you can ask your solicitor.
If you are before the Magistrates you would address them as ‘Your Worships’. If you are before a District Judge you would address them as ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’. If it is a Circuit Judge you would address them as ‘Your Honour’. There are higher levels of Judge but most family cases are left to these levels of Judge.
4. Can I bring things into the Court room with me?
You can bring your bag and coat in with you. We would normally recommend bringing a pen and paper in with you so you can write down any questions during the hearing. You will then be able to ask your solicitor or barrister after the hearing if you were unsure of anything. If you are representing yourself you may have a ‘bundle’ of papers which are important to bring with you as the Judge or another party may wish to refer to a document.
5. Why can’t my family or friends come in with me?
All children matters are ‘private’ therefore there are strict rules about who can and can’t come into the Court room. Normally there will be the Judge, and the other parties in the proceedings. There may only be two parties, or there could be up to 4/5. However members of the public will not be allowed in due to the sensitive nature of cases concerning children. There is no Jury in family proceedings. There may be a Judge’s Clerk who does not have any involvement in the case but can pass the Judge papers and help with any administrative issues.
6. How long will I be in Court for?
This can depend on the type of hearing. Some can be very short between 30 and 60 minutes; however, some can take all day. You will be advised by your solicitor how long the hearing is expected to take. Alternatively looking at the order will tell you how long the hearing is likely to take.
We know that there are countless questions about going to Court and every case is unique. If you have a family law enquiry please contact Luke Dixon on 029 2047 5100.