Remote & video hearings — attending family court from home
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-28
What's possible now
Since 2020, family courts routinely use video hearings (usually via Cloud Video Platform, CVP, or Microsoft Teams) for case-management appointments, some contested hearings, and any hearing where attending in person is hard. You can ask to attend remotely — the court decides, weighing fairness, the issues, and your circumstances.
How to ask for a remote hearing
1. Request it when the listing is made (or in your position statement): state your reasons — work, childcare, travel cost, disability, safety (not wanting to sit near the other party) 2. The court confirms the platform and sends joining instructions (a link + meeting ID) 3. Test your setup beforehand: camera, microphone, internet, a quiet private room
On the day — the etiquette
- Join 15 minutes early (ushers check you in)
- Dress as you would in person; sit at a table, light behind your screen
- Mute when not speaking; identify yourself before speaking
- No recording — recording hearings without permission is an offence; ask the court for the official recording if you need it
- If your connection fails: phone the court immediately (number is in your instructions)
When remote is NOT right
Contested fact-finding hearings and cases where credibility matters are often better in person. If you feel a video hearing would seriously disadvantage you, say so and ask for an in-person listing.
Safety note for abuse survivors
A remote hearing removes the stress of sitting near your ex — but your device may be monitored. Use a safe device, a neutral room, headphones, and a private background. See our FL401 safety guide.
Official links
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/video-hearings-in-courts-and-tribunals
- https://www.gov.uk/looking-after-children-divorce
This page is general information, not legal advice. YourFamilyCase.co.uk is an independent information directory and is not affiliated with HMCTS or gov.uk.
Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.