Family Court in Essex —

If you are involved in family court proceedings in Essex, you are likely to attend hearings at one of the main family court centres in the county. Understanding where to go, what to expect and how to prepare makes the experience considerably less daunting.

Family court locations in Essex

Family court hearings in Essex are typically held at:

• Chelmsford Family Court, the main family court centre for Essex, handling financial remedy, children and divorce matters
• Southend-on-Sea, hearings may also be listed at Southend County Court
• Colchester. Some matters are heard at Colchester County Court

Getting there

Chelmsford Family Court is centrally located and accessible by public transport and car. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for security and to find your courtroom.

McKenzie Friend support in Essex

The Separation Companion is based in East Anglia and can attend family court hearings across Essex as your McKenzie Friend, providing calm, practical support in the room.

Support is also available for Essex-based clients with online hearings, which are increasingly common for shorter directions hearings and some financial remedy appointments.

Family courts in Essex

Family proceedings in Essex are heard at several court centres. The main ones are Chelmsford Family Court (the main centre for Essex proceedings), Southend Combined Court (serving south Essex), Colchester County Court (serving north Essex), and Basildon Combined Court (serving west and central Essex). Some hearings are now conducted remotely by video, particularly directions hearings.

What to expect when you arrive at court

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your hearing. Bring all relevant documents in an organised bundle. You will go through security on arrival. In family proceedings, you may encounter your ex-partner in the waiting area and court staff can arrange separate waiting areas if needed. The Personal Support Unit at Chelmsford offers free practical help to litigants in person.