Tips When Attending Court
The Custody Minefield Factsheets –
Smartphone Series (optimised for smartphone users). Copyright Michael Robinson
2006, 2011.
·
Do
clear out your
pockets or handbag before leaving home. Courts often have metal detectors,
and security staff will search your bags when you enter the building. Take in
only what you need.
·
Don’t
be late. Allow time for traffic jams, finding
parking places, missed buses, or cancelled trains.
·
Do
dress smartly as if you are attending an interview
(Judges like to be shown respect).
·
Do
take an umbrella (it sounds obvious, but there is
nothing worse than turning up in Court dripping wet. Also ensure any paperwork
you take with you is in something waterproof).
·
Do
take a coat or a jumper. Some Courts can be baking
hot while others can be chilly depending on the age of the Court building.
·
Do
use Court delay time: If the hearing is delayed,
and you find yourself at one end of a corridor with your solicitor,
with your ex-partner at the other end with theirs, don’t waste this time
(you’re paying for it) – negotiate! See if a compromise can be reached. Set
your solicitor running up and down the corridor (they’re used to it).
·
Don't
stare out your ex-partner.
·
Don't
interrupt the Judge.
·
Don't
get angry – stay calm.
·
Do
take a pad and pen into the Court. Make notes, and if
you need to say something to your solicitor,
write it down and hand it across to them (or a note saying “I need to speak to
you about this”). The Judge is usually quite observant and will point out to
the solicitor that “your client wishes to speak to you” and allow you some
time.
·
Don’t
make plans for the rest of the day. You could be tied
up for hours.
·
Do
make contingency plans in case you are tied up in
Court for hours (make arrangements for the children to be picked up, and have
enough cash on you for the parking meter).
·
Do
take a drink and some food and something to read.
· Do turn off your mobile
phone before you walk into the Court room.
Support
<Back to Top>
The Custody Minefield offers support forums where you can
ask our team of experienced support staff questions about family law, the
courts and separation. Collectively, we have answered more than 10,000 posts on
other family law related support forums. Visit our Support Forum Page on
The Custody Minefield website to find out how to register.