What happens in a Directions Hearing at Family Court?

[ColeXander]

Hi. I was just hoping for some advice, I hope I’m posting in the correct section.

I’ve just received a letter for a Directions Hearing at Family Court. It’s regarding my sons who are 10 and 13. Their father left when I was pregnant with the 10 year old and hasn’t see them since. He now wants access

Does anyone know what will happen at this hearing please and what the next steps will be?

If anyone has been though this and can offer any help I’d really appreciate it.

I'm not a family lawyer but in general directions hearings are administrative hearings to decide next steps and timetabling. So it will set dates for when documents have to be submitted, set out what has to happen and generally put in place all the steps needed for the case to be heard.

Basically a directions hearing is your timeline it’s everything that needs to happen.

from appts to when reports need to be filed

No legal advice but he is a cf after 10 years... Has he been paying Cms the full time?
Your dc's wishes will be very relevant at their ages....

From experience: a directions hearing is where the court decide what paperwork is need e.g. statements from both sides, reports produced by Cafcass etc. It also gives the dates that all the paperwork requested needs to be submitted to the court.
No decision regarding access will be made at a directions hearing.

Given their ages your children's wishes should be taken into account (my DD was asked at age 6 how she would like to spend time with each parent).

Thank you for all the replies. Is it something we need to attend then if it’s actually more paperwork and dates? Does the Mum usually have to attend and will they not just write me another letter?

I have a baby at home with me who I wouldn’t want to bring and it’s very hard to travel to where the court is. Also I have multiple school runs to do as my daughter only does half days at Nursery.

I tried calling the court to ask if I needed to attend but they didn’t answer. So I’m not sure what to do

If you don't attend you won't have an opportunity to put across any points you want (more time/less time for certain steps, etc) and make sure dates you can't do are avoided.

The hearing is unlikely to take very long. I'd definitely go along, you can have your say and have some input into timescales and dates.
If letter says a10am hearing it usually happens some time during morning session, so finished by lunchtime. I think afternoon sessions are from 2pm. Court closes at 4pm. You'll need to get there atleast 30 minutes early to check in.

I would definitely go OP to every court session, I'm actually a little surprised you'd consider not going. The fact that ex hasn't been interested in all these years will weigh heavily on your side however it doesn't guarantee anything. Is there anyone else who can help you out that day for childcare? Partner take a day off work?

Do you have a family solicitor? If you can afford it it might be worthwhile.

Hope all goes well, ex is a CF after all those years!!

Good morning!

So the Directions Hearing is taking place today, it’s virtual due to train strikes.

The option is either video call or audio call. I’m leaning towards audio call as then I don’t have to see my ex and he can’t see me.

Does anyone think video would be better? And if so why please? I’m so stressed and I can’t think properly right now

Thank you

Do what is best for you

If you don't want to see your ex then that is a valid reason

@quietnightmare Thank you. It’s just been over 10 years and it’s very stressful for me

Write a list of prompts.
Highlight key words.
Keep things factual.
Take deep breaths. Do not get upset!
Tissues handy just incase.
Remember you know your dc.

Exh doesn't... Could be imo he has a new gf who is pushing for this. To look the Good Guy he is going along with it.

@Eastereggsboxedupready Thats very helpful, thanks so much! It’s his sister who is pushing for it. I bumped into her recently and I’m guessing she’s applied pressure 🙄