Who can attend a family court hearing?
People commonly involved
The parties and their legal representatives attend where the hearing requires them. Cafcass or Cafcass Cymru may attend or provide a report in children cases. Witnesses attend when directed or called, and may be excluded until their evidence is complete. The judge, legal adviser, court staff and advocates are also part of the hearing team.
A friend or supporter is not automatically admitted
If you need someone for emotional, communication or accessibility support, contact the court as early as possible and ask about the correct permission process. Do not assume a partner, new spouse, McKenzie Friend or relative can sit in the hearing without the judge's approval. Remote attendance also requires permission or a joining link from the court.
Privacy and reporting
Private family proceedings have restrictions on attendance, information-sharing and publication. Accredited journalists and authorised legal bloggers may be able to attend under the rules, subject to reporting restrictions. A person who attends must not record the hearing or publish identifying information simply because they were present.
Prepare a short attendance request
- Your case number and hearing date.
- The person's name and relationship to you.
- Why their attendance or support is needed.
- Any safeguarding, confidentiality or accessibility issue.
- Whether the request is for in-person or remote attendance.
Questions people ask
What happens at a family court hearing?
The judge or legal adviser will deal with the issues listed for that hearing, hear from the parties or advocates and give directions or a decision. The order or directions notice should tell you what preparation is required.
Can a McKenzie Friend attend a family hearing?
A McKenzie Friend may attend with the court's permission, but the judge can restrict the role or refuse attendance. Ask the court about the procedure before the hearing.
Can family members sit in the hearing?
Not automatically. Family proceedings are subject to privacy rules and the judge controls attendance. Request permission in advance and do not bring additional people expecting admission.
Official sources to check
Links were checked while this page was prepared. Legislation, fees and court guidance can change; use the linked source for the current position.
Preparing for a hearing? Use a child-focused chronology and a practical handover plan. This site provides self-serve information for litigants in person; it is not a law firm.