Children from the age of 10 to speak to Judges in family Court cases

As part of the changes to the family justice system in England and Wales, the Government has announced their intention to make it the norm for children aged 10 and over to have access to the judge who is asked to make decisions about where they are to live and who they are to see.

Children aged 10 and over will be given the chance to make their views known to the judge either in person or, if preferred by the child, in another way.

The Government wants children to be kept informed about court proceedings. They should be contacted before the first hearing, have the opportunity of giving feedback through email, text, telephone or written form and should be kept updated as their case progresses.

The Government continues to support family mediation as an alternative to the Court process and has committed to working with family mediators to make sure that children aged 10 and over will be able to speak to mediators in cases which affect them.

When you separate, it is important to understand what the Court process and family mediation involve. Many parents wrongly assume that the Court will give them what they want quickly. As experienced family lawyers, Emsleys can discuss with you your options, whether your circumstances involve children, money, or both. If you decide family mediation may be an appropriate alternative to going to Court and you are in receipt of a low income, we may be able to offer you legal aid.

To speak to one of our experts, give us a call on 0113 201 4900 for a free, initial chat.