Understanding the court system
Three types of court hear family matters in England and Wales: the Family Court (where almost everything starts), the Magistrates’ Court family panel, and the High Court (Family Division) for the most complex cases. Each has its own layout, formality level, and cast of characters.
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Court types
3
Family, Magistrates', High Court
Family courts
~250
across England & Wales
family cases
Most
stay in the Family Court
Family Court
No wigs
less formal than you think
Courtroom layout
See what the courtroom looks like for each type of court. Interactive floor plans show where everyone sits.
Open guideWho's who in court
The judge, barristers, solicitors, court clerk - A member of court staff who manages the practical running of the courtroom. They call cases, administer oaths, pass documents to the judge, and help keep things moving. Also called the usher., Cafcass - Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. An independent organisation that advises the family court on what’s best for children. A Cafcass officer may speak to you, the other parent, and your children. officer, McKenzie Friend - A person who sits with you in court to provide moral support, take notes, and help organise documents. They’re not a lawyer and can’t speak to the judge on your behalf.. Who they are and what they do.
Open guideRepresenting yourself
How to address the judge, present evidence, and handle cross-examination when you don't have a lawyer.
Open guideWhich court handles what?
England and Wales has three types of court that hear family matters. If you are dealing with divorce, children, or finances, your case will almost certainly start in the Family Court - The court that handles family cases including divorce, children arrangements, financial orders, protection orders, and adoption. Less formal than other courts: the judge usually wears a suit, not robes..
Tap a card to see how each court works.
Family Court
Handles
- Divorce and dissolution
- Children arrangements
- Financial orders
- Protection orders
- Adoption
Judge
Usually a District Judge. No wig, no robes: they wear a suit.
Formality
Relatively informal. Designed to be less intimidating than other courts.
Key fact
Most family cases are heard here, not in the High Court.
Courtroom etiquette
How to address the judge
"Sir" or "Madam"
Not "Your Honour" (that is Crown Court). If you are unsure, "Sir" or "Madam" is always safe in family court.
Practical tips
- Stand when the judge enters and leaves the room
- Say "thank you" when the judge addresses you directly
- If you don't understand something, it's fine to say "I'm sorry, could you explain that?"
- You don't need to ask permission to take notes
- Turn your phone off (not silent: off)
What to expect on the day
Your first time in court is always nerve-wracking. Here is a practical walkthrough of what happens, from the moment you arrive to the end of your hearing.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in with security, find the right waiting area, and give yourself time to settle. Courts are confusing buildings.
Bring your ID and all documents
Photo ID, your court bundle, any orders already made, and a notebook. Bring paper copies of everything, even if you filed digitally.
Find the usher
The usher manages the courtroom list. Tell them your name and which case you're here for. If you have safety concerns about seeing the other party, tell the usher now.
Wait to be called
You might wait 30 minutes or 3 hours. Bring something to read. You can get water and use the bathroom. Don't leave the building without telling the usher.
The judge will explain what happens
The judge will introduce themselves, explain the purpose of the hearing, and tell you when to speak. You don't need to know the procedure in advance.
You can take notes
Bring a pen and paper. Write down anything the judge says you need to do. If a McKenzie Friend is with you, they can take notes too.
Ask if you don't understand
Judges expect litigants in person to ask questions. If you don't understand a legal term or what's being asked of you, say so. It's not a sign of weakness.
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