What to Expect at a

The prospect of attending a family court hearing is frightening for most people. The unfamiliar environment, the formal language, the stakes involved, it can feel completely overwhelming. But knowing what to expect makes an enormous difference to how you feel on the day.

This guide walks you through what actually happens at a family court hearing, from arrival to leaving the building.

Before you go, preparation

Good preparation is the most important thing you can do. Know your case, know your documents, and know what outcome you are seeking. If you have a bundle of documents, make sure it is organised and you can find things quickly.

What to bring:

• Your court bundle (documents organised in the correct order)
• Any position statement or statement you have filed
• A notepad and pen
• Photo ID
• Any correspondence relevant to the hearing
• Water (hearings can be long and stressful)

Dress smartly and arrive early, aim for at least 30 minutes before your hearing time. Courts can be confusing to navigate and you will want time to find the right room and compose yourself.

Arriving at court

You will go through security on arrival, similar to an airport. Bags are scanned and you may be asked to remove belts or items from pockets. Mobile phones are generally allowed but must be switched to silent. Recording of any kind is strictly prohibited in court buildings.

Once through security, check the listings board or ask court staff which room your hearing is in. You will often need to wait in a waiting area before being called.

If the other party is also present, you are not required to engage with them. It is perfectly acceptable to wait in a separate area if you prefer.

In the courtroom

Family court hearings in England and Wales are generally held in private, members of the public are not admitted. When your case is called, you will enter the courtroom and take your place at the table. Your McKenzie Friend, if you have one, will sit beside you.

When the judge enters, everyone stands. Address the judge as "Sir" or "Ma'am" unless they introduce themselves differently.

Speak clearly and calmly. If you don't understand a question, it is fine to ask for clarification. If you need a moment, ask for one. Judges understand that these proceedings are stressful.

Different types of hearing

Not all hearings are the same. The format and what happens will depend on what type of hearing it is:

• Directions hearings, short administrative hearings to set timescales and next steps
• First Appointment (FDA), the first financial remedy hearing, focused on narrowing issues
• FDR hearing, a settlement-focused hearing where the judge gives an indication
• Contested hearings, full hearings where evidence is heard and decisions made
• FHDRA, First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment in children cases

After the hearing

The judge will either make an order on the day or give directions for next steps. Make sure you understand what has been decided and what you are required to do next, and by when.

Take notes during the hearing or ask your McKenzie Friend to do so. It is easy to forget what was said when you are under pressure.

McKenzie Friend support

You have the right to be accompanied by a McKenzie Friend at most family court hearings. A McKenzie Friend can sit beside you, take notes, quietly advise and provide moral support. They cannot speak on your behalf unless the judge specifically grants permission, but their presence can make a significant difference to how you feel.