County Court access

[smokinaces]

Hi

I have agreed to go to the county court to support my friend next week - her ex is taking her to court over the children and access issues. Lots of history, which isnt mine to share, but I am going to support her facing him and the whole day.

But any idea what kind of thing happens? How formal is it? What should I wear? How long do they tend to take?

My breakup was thankfully amicable so I have no experience of all this, and want to try and be as forewarned as possible so I can support her 100%

Thanks

OK most likely you won't be allowed inside the actual court room for the hearing. If it's the first hearing it will be directions only. There will be no bench sitting it's just to decide what reports (CAFCASS et-al) and information are required if matters can be resolved without a bench between the two parties.

If it is the directions hearing the solicitors will put forward what they are seeking and why they are seeking it via court. It won't make a difference what you yourself wear as I'd expect you won't be allowed in. However, best to turn up smart as you don't want the judiciary to think your not taking the issue of the wel;fare of your children seriously.

Does your friend have legal representation?

lots of waiting around....

her ex may be in same waiting room...

you wont be allowed into courtroom.....

just being there is enough really...i never had anyone wait with me,she will be gratefull!!

And something very important, if she has a solicitor, don't interrupt their conversations or allow for her solicitor to explain you what is going on, it is a waste of very valuable time that solicitor can use to advise your friend better.

If she is a litigant in person, you should be allowed in to help her take notes etc. The courts are usually sympathetic to this. If she has a lawyer with her, I agree you won't be allowed in unless everyone, including the Judge, permits it.

Family courts are not massively formal, but best to turn up looking reasonably smart.

How long will it take? How long is a piece of string.... Most county courts list at least two cases at the same time, on the basis that if one case doesn't go ahead, no time is wasted.

Sometimes cases do drop out, but this system of listing cases usually means a lot of hanging about as even though you are told you are being heard at 10.30, you may not be the 'first' on the 10.30 list. So make sure you take something to read, eat and drink in case you are hanging about. Not all courts have cafes etc or even functioning vending machines.

You may end up waiting for hours, but hopefully not.

Depending on the court, some are very crowded, have no private space to wait, so bear in mind that you may end up in closer proximity to the other side than you would like.

Thanks everyone

She is representing herself, so has asked me to go as her "quiet friend" - was going to be her current partner but she knew he wouldnt be able to keep quiet in court, so asked me instead (mckenzie friend or something?)

I'm nervous that I wont be able to help her if something really upsetting happens, but I am determined to be there for her

Thanks again

As a mackenzie friend you are expected to support your friend taking notes and making discrete comments to her about what is said (think via post it). You are not allowed to speak on her behalf unless she becomes upset and she can't do it herself (I think...)

If you are her official mackenzie friend you are allowed in but the formality is that you should really officially state this to the other side before going to court.

www.fnf.org.uk/law-and-information/mckenzie-friends