Family Court Articles

Short explainers on what happens in family court, from your first hearing to an appeal. Written for people without a solicitor. Court Compass covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. These articles are information, not legal advice.

• Breach of a Family Court Order Explained
  Breaching a family court order is serious. Here is what the consequences are, how enforcement works, and what to do if someone breaches an order against you.
• CAFCASS Report Explained | What to Expect
  A CAFCASS report can make or break your children case. Here is what the officer is looking for, what to say, and how to prepare for the interview.
• Child Arrangements Order Explained
  A Child Arrangements Order sets out where your child lives and when they see each parent. Here is what it covers, how to apply, and what the court looks for.
• Emergency Family Court Applications
  Emergency applications can get you before a judge within 24 hours. Here is when they are justified, what the court requires, and what happens next.
• Financial Remedy Family Court Explained
  Financial remedy proceedings decide how assets are divided on divorce. Here is what the court looks at and what to expect if you are unrepresented.
• First Family Court Hearing: What to Expect
  Your first family court hearing is not the final decision. But it sets the tone for everything that follows. Here is what happens and how to prepare for it.
• How to Appeal a Family Court Decision
  You can appeal a family court decision, but not because you disagree with it. Here is when an appeal is possible, how to do it, and what the courts look for.
• Letter From a Solicitor Explained
  Received a letter from a solicitor in a family law matter? Here is what the language actually means, what they want, and what you should do before you respond.
• MIAM Explained for Family Court
  Before you apply to family court in England and Wales, you usually need a MIAM. Here is what it is, what happens at one, and when you are legally exempt.
• Prohibited Steps Order Explained
  A Prohibited Steps Order stops the other parent taking a specific action without court permission. Here is what it covers, how to get one, and how to respond.
• Veterans in Family Court | Court Compass | Veterans Rates
  Serving and veteran personnel face challenges in family court. Court Compass holds dedicated veterans rates on every service for HM Armed Forces veterans.
• What Is a McKenzie Friend?
  A McKenzie Friend can sit beside you in court, help with your paperwork, and give you real support. Find out what they can and cannot do.