How to prepare for a family court hearing — a plain-English national guide

Who this is for. If you have a family court hearing coming up in England — most often about your children (a Form C100 child-arrangements case) but also in other children and financial matters — this guide walks you through what to do before the hearing, what to bring, how to behave in the hearing room, and what to do if the outcome is only partial. It is written in plain English for people representing themselves, it is not legal advice, and it does not take sides.

Reviewed by Sean McNamara on 2026-10-21

What to do before the hearing

A little careful preparation before the day makes the hearing calmer and clearer for you — and helps the judge focus on the points that matter.

Re-read the order or notice of hearing. The court will send you a notice telling you the date, time and address of the hearing, and how long it should last. Read it carefully, and be clear about why this hearing is happening (for example, a first hearing, a directions hearing, or a final hearing) and what the court is being asked to decide. You should also re-read your application and any orders or statements already made in your case.
Prepare a bundle if the court requires one. In family cases the parties usually put the papers together into a bundle (a paginated file of the documents the judge will read). If the court has ordered you to prepare or file a bundle, follow the direction exactly — including the deadline and the page-numbering layout. If the court has not asked for one, you do not need to create one; but do take copies of the papers that are relevant to the points you want to raise.
Note the key dates. The hearing order may set deadlines — for filing a statement, sending a bundle to the court and the other parent, or replying to the other side. Missed deadlines can delay your case, so put every date in your diary and check it off.
Plan your points. Write down the few things you most want the court to understand, in a short and factual way, and what you are asking the judge to do. It can help to note what you and the other parent already agree on alongside what you still disagree about — this saves the court time. Keep your notes brief; the hearing is not the place for a long argument.
Tell the court about any access or safety needs. If you need help to take part — for example an interpreter, documents in large print or an alternative format, a hearing loop, extra breaks, different seating so you are not near the other party, or any other reasonable adjustment — contact the court before the hearing date. You should also contact the court if you have worries about your safety on the day. The court can make arrangements to help you feel safe. If you have personal safety concerns, raise them with the court as early as you can, and if you believe you are in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
Tell the court who is coming with you. You may bring one person for support (a friend or family member). If you plan to bring a McKenzie friend (someone who helps a self-representing party), tell the court and the other parent about them before the hearing.

Key point: the court staff cannot give you legal advice, but they will tell you where to go and what to do on the day. If you qualify, free legal advice may be available — see our Legal Aid guide.

What to bring

Your hearing letter / notice, which shows your case number — it helps you find where you need to go in the building.
Any papers you need for your hearing, including your bundle, your notes, a pen and paper, and copies of any statements or documents you have filed. You may also bring a laptop if you want to.
Food, drink and anything you need for comfort (not all buildings have refreshments), plus a face covering and hand sanitiser if you want them.
Arrive about 30 minutes early (check the time stated in your notice) and report to a member of court staff, telling them whether you are the applicant or the respondent and whether you have a lawyer or McKenzie friend with you. Be patient if you wait — your case may not be first.
You cannot bring weapons, glass, or liquids other than non-alcoholic drinks or hand sanitiser into the building. Do not bring children unless you have no alternative — there are no childcare facilities and staff cannot look after children while you are in the hearing.

How to behave in the hearing

Address the judge respectfully. Call them "judge" if they are a judge or District Judge, and "sir" or "madam" if they are magistrates. You may bow when the judge comes in and out if you wish — you don't have to. Stand when a member of staff says "all rise if able" during the hearing room.
Stay calm and don't interrupt. Let the other person finish speaking; you will get your own turn to say what you think. If you disagree with something, make a note of it and raise it when it is your turn. Try to be factual and respectful rather than angry or emotional.
Silence your phone and don't take photos or videos (you can take written notes). Wear clothing that is respectful and suitable for court.
Speak clearly and honestly. If you give evidence, you will likely be asked to swear an oath or affirm to tell the truth, and you may be asked questions. Answer the question you are actually asked, honestly and briefly.
Ask for a break if you need one — you can ask a member of staff or the court at any point.
Leave the building straight after your hearing unless the court tells you otherwise.

What to do if the outcome is only partial

Family court cases are rarely decided completely in one go, particularly where children are concerned.

Understand the order or next step. The court may make a decision on the day, or may send it to you later by post. It may make a partial order (dealing with some issues now) and adjourn (postpone) the rest, or set directions for another hearing — for example ordering a Cafcass report (a Section 7 report), statements, or further evidence. Listen carefully and make sure you understand what will happen next and what you are required to do.
Check the directions and dates. The court will usually set the timetable for the next steps — what papers you must prepare, and by when. Note every date and file the required documents on time, sending copies to the court and to the other parent.
Ask if anything is unclear. You can ask the judge to explain what has been decided and what happens next. It is far better to ask at the hearing than to leave unsure.
Don't treat "partial" as failure. A stepped and staged process is normal and is often about gathering the information the court needs to make a safe decision in the child's best interests. Use the time constructively, and co-operate with any report or assessment ordered.
If you disagree with the decision, legal routes may be available (such as appealing in limited circumstances). Because this is technical and time-limited, speak to a solicitor or the court's advice services promptly rather than delaying.

Where to find official guidance (GOV.UK)

GOV.UK, "What to expect coming to a court or tribunal" — what to bring, arriving, safety and reasonable adjustments, and how to behave: gov.uk/guidance/what-to-expect-coming-to-a-court-or-tribunal
GOV.UK, "Guide for separated parents: children and the family courts (CB7)" — preparing for court and how to behave in hearings: gov.uk/government/publications/guide-for-separated-parents-children-and-the-family-courts-cb7
GOV.UK, "Making an application: children and the family courts (CB1)" — attending court and telling the court of any special arrangements: gov.uk/government/publications/family-court-applications-that-involve-children-cb1
GOV.UK, "Find your local court or tribunal" — contact details for your court: gov.uk/find-court-tribunal

This is general information, not legal advice. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified family-law solicitor or a regulated adviser, and it does not take sides or prejudge any case. Processes and guidance change — always verify the current position on the official GOV.UK pages linked above before acting, and follow any directions given by your own court, which take precedence over this general guide. If you believe you or your child are in immediate danger, call the police on 999; if you are a survivor of domestic abuse, contact Refuge (0808 2000 247) or Women's Aid. The family court decides each case on its evidence and on the best interests of the child.

YourFamilyCase is an independent, impartial information resource. We are not part of GOV.UK, HM Courts & Tribunals Service, or Cafcass, and we receive no payment or preferment from any mediator, solicitor, or agency named or linked in this guide. The information here is provided to help you understand the system; it does not replace professional legal advice.