What going to a Family Court is Really Like (And Why It’s Not Like ‘Suits’) 

Introduction 

For many people, the idea of going to court comes with a very specific image: dramatic courtroom speeches, surprise witnesses appearing last minute, lawyers shouting ‘objection!’ and a judge delivering a life-changing verdict.  

However, the reality of the Family Court in England and Wales is usually much more practical and (sadly for fans of ‘Suits’), much less theatrical. 

The Family Court is there to help resolve difficult family issues, make decisions about children, finances and other important matters, and deal with disputes in a structured and fair way. While attending court can feel daunting, knowing what to expect can make the experience much less intimidating. 

So, what actually happens when you go to Court? 

Where do hearings take place: 

Family Court hearings can happen in two ways: 

• In person: You must attend the court hearing in person at the Court. The Court or your solicitor will send you a Notice of Hearing, which will confirm the date, time and location of the hearing. 

• Online: Many hearings now take place remotely using a secure video platform, often through a Cloud Video Platform (CVP) link. This will be sent to either your solicitors or to you directly from the Court. 

Before the Hearing 

You will usually be asked to arrive at Court 30 to 60 minutes before an in person hearing. This time allows you to meet with your solicitor and barrister, discuss any updates, and is an opportunity to ask any questions you may have before entering the courtroom. 

When you arrive, you’ll need to go through court security. Think of it as a little like going through airport security – just without the oversized suitcase! Court staff will check your bags and scan you to make sure you don’t bring in anything you shouldn’t. It’s a standard process that everyone goes through. 

If you need any special measures, these should be arranged before your hearing. Special measures are there to help you feel more comfortable and supported at court. They may include a separate waiting area, screens or curtains in the courtroom so you don’t have to see the other party, or the support of an interpreter.  

If you are represented, your solicitor, paralegal or barrister will usually notify the court of these special measures on your behalf. If you are attending without legal representation, you can speak to a member of the court staff when you arrive to check that the necessary arrangements are in place. 

During the Hearing: What Actually Happens? 

What happens during a family court hearing depends on the type of hearing. However, most hearings follow a similar format. Here’s what you can generally expect: 

• No public audience and no jury: 

Family court hearings are normally held in private, which means members of the public cannot attend. Family Courts do not have juries and the case will either be decided by a Judge or by Magistrates with a legal advisor.  

In principle, certain journalists and lawyers are allowed to come to hearings and report on them. However, they would need to apply for a Transparency Order for the Court to grant permission. If the court allows reporting of your case, you would be put on notice and sent a Transparency Order. The order details what can and cannot be reported. In the majority of cases, it is rare for press to seek to attend hearings and if permission is granted, they are subject to strict reporting rules and cannot usually publish details of what is said in the hearing unless the court gives permission. 

• No, not everyone wears a wig:

The traditional courtroom look you see on television is not the everyday reality of family hearings. Wigs and formal robes are rarely worn in a standard family hearing. Instead, legal professionals typically wear smart business attire.

• Who will be in the room?

The judge or magistrates will usually sit at the front of the courtroom. The barristers sit at the front tables facing the judge. You will normally sit with your legal team behind them.

In addition to the other party being present, the following people may also be present depending on your case:  

• • The other party’s legal representatives. 
  • A social worker; 
  • A Cafcass officer; and 
  • Other professionals who have been asked to provide information or evidence to assist the court.

• Do you need a speech?
  You are not expected to stand up and give a speech. The judge will guide the conversation and ask questions. If you are represented, your solicitor or barrister will speak on your behalf unless you are giving evidence. If you are acting in person, you will need to simply listen carefully, answer honestly, and explain things as clearly as you can. You may want to have a pen and note pad to remind yourself of key dates or points you want to remember or raise with your legal representative.

• Let the other party finish speaking. 

Even if you strongly disagree with something the other party says, avoid interrupting. Speaking over someone is unlikely to help your case. Wait until it is your turn to speak and let the judge manage the discussion. This will allow the judge to give proper consideration to both parties’ positions.  

After the Hearing 

At the end of the hearing, the judge may make a decision immediately or give directions for what will happen next, including setting dates for any further hearings. 

Your solicitor or barrister will explain the outcome, what it means for you, and the next steps in your case. The court’s decision will also be recorded in a written court order. 

About Blanchards Family Law

Blanchards Family Law is a specialist family law firm. We serve clients across London, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and the rest of the UK.

The firm advises on all aspects of family law, including;

• Divorce
• Financial settlements,
• Child arrangements
• Prenuptial agreements
• Cohabitation disputes
• International family law matters
• Mediation
• Trust and Inheritance
• Wills, Probate & Contentious Probate
• Pet Custody

Blanchards Law is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s leading family law firms. The firm is ranked in The Legal 500 and recognised by Chambers. They are a leading firm in Chambers High Net Worth Guide 2025, named among eprivateclient’s Top Family Law Firms. They are also featured in the Spear’s 500 directory for advising high-net-worth individuals. These independent rankings reflect the firm’s reputation for excellence, specialist expertise and exceptional client service.

Contact us

For more information about Blanchards Law and its services, please contact: info@blanchardslaw.co.uk or call us today on 0333 344 6302

With offices in Beaconsfield, Henley-on-Thames, Marlow and London. The firm supports clients across the South East, Thames Valley and throughout the UK.