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Remote Hearings in Family Court (UK): What to Expect and How to Prepare

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Remote hearings have become a permanent feature of the Family Court in England and Wales, not merely a temporary fix from the pandemic. Cases are now routinely listed by telephone or video link using secure platforms such as the Cloud Video Platform (CVP) or newer services introduced by HMCTS, and decisions about the mode of hearing are made by the judge based on fairness and access to justice. Remote hearings follow many of the same rules as in-person hearings, but require additional preparation, technology readiness and courtroom etiquette. Understanding how they work and how to prepare is essential for litigants in person.

Remote Hearings in Family Court (UK): What to Expect and How to Prepare

Key Takeaways for Litigants in Person

  • Remote hearings are now a permanent feature of Family Court in England and Wales.
  • They follow the same legal rules as in-person hearings — but require additional technical preparation.
  • You must treat a remote hearing with the same formality and respect as attending court physically.
  • Preparation includes technology checks, privacy safeguards, document readiness and clear communication structure.
  • Poor technical preparation can undermine credibility — evidence readiness still matters.
  • Structure, calm presentation and procedural awareness remain critical in a remote setting.

Introduction: Remote Hearings Are Here to Stay

Remote hearings were accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic — but they are no longer a temporary measure. The Family Court now routinely lists hearings by telephone or video link where appropriate. Judges determine the mode of hearing based on fairness, practicality and the interests of justice.

For litigants in person, remote hearings can feel both convenient and disorientating. You may be attending from your home, yet participating in a formal judicial process. The setting may feel informal — but the legal consequences are not.

This guide explains how remote hearings work in Family Court, what technology is used, what is expected of you, and how to prepare strategically and professionally.

Official Overview: What Remote Hearings Look Like

The following official-style video provides a helpful overview of how remote court hearings operate in practice:

This video gives visual context for how remote hearings function and what to expect when joining by video.

What Platform Is Used?

Most Family Court remote hearings use:

  • Cloud Video Platform (CVP)
  • Microsoft Teams (in some courts)
  • Telephone conferencing systems

The joining link is usually sent by email in advance. It is your responsibility to check it works.

Guidance from HMCTS is available here:

What to Expect When Joining a Telephone or Video Hearing (GOV.UK)

Are Remote Hearings Legally Different?

No.

The same legal framework applies:

  • Family Procedure Rules 2010
  • Practice Directions (including PD12J and PD27A where relevant)
  • The Children Act 1989 welfare principle (in children cases)

The judge’s powers and expectations remain unchanged.

The only difference is the format of attendance.

When Are Remote Hearings Typically Used?

  • Case Management Hearings
  • Directions Hearings
  • FHDRA hearings
  • Short interim applications
  • Procedural reviews

Fact-finding hearings and final hearings may sometimes still take place remotely, but judges consider complexity, evidence type, and fairness.

Advantages of Remote Hearings

  • No travel costs
  • Reduced time off work
  • Increased listing flexibility
  • Potentially less intimidating environment

Risks of Remote Hearings

  • Technical failures
  • Connectivity interruptions
  • Reduced ability to read courtroom dynamics
  • Distractions in home environments
  • Risk of informal tone creeping in

Preparation neutralises these risks.

Technical Preparation Checklist

Before the Hearing:

  • Test your internet connection.
  • Use a laptop where possible (not just a phone).
  • Charge devices fully.
  • Have a backup device ready.
  • Ensure camera and microphone function.
  • Download required apps in advance.
  • Join the hearing 10–15 minutes early.

Environment Preparation:

  • Quiet room.
  • Neutral background.
  • No interruptions.
  • Phones on silent.
  • Children supervised elsewhere.

Remote Hearing Etiquette

Even though you are at home, you are in court.

  • Dress professionally.
  • Address the judge appropriately (Sir/Madam/Your Honour as applicable).
  • Mute when not speaking.
  • Do not interrupt.
  • Do not record the hearing without permission.

Recording without permission may amount to contempt.

Document Readiness in a Remote Setting

Remote hearings require heightened document awareness.

  • Have the bundle open on screen or printed.
  • Know page numbers in advance.
  • Use bookmarks in PDFs where possible.
  • Prepare a short position statement.
  • Prepare a list of key page references.

In remote hearings, clarity replaces physical presence.

Communication Strategy

When speaking remotely:

  • Speak slowly.
  • Pause before responding.
  • Use page references clearly (“Bundle page 124, paragraph 6”).
  • Avoid talking over others.
  • Keep submissions structured.

Remote platforms amplify confusion. Structure prevents it.

Safeguarding and Privacy

Remote hearings remain confidential.

  • No one else should be in the room unless permitted.
  • No recording or streaming.
  • Ensure no background conversations.

Family proceedings are private.

If Technology Fails

  • Rejoin immediately.
  • Email the court promptly.
  • Have a backup phone number ready.

Judges understand occasional technical issues — but preparation reduces disruption.

Remote Hearings and Credibility

Judges assess credibility even remotely.

  • Eye contact with the camera.
  • Composed tone.
  • Professional setting.
  • Structured responses.

Remote does not mean relaxed standards.

Working With a McKenzie Friend in a Remote Hearing

If supported:

  • Clarify how you will communicate privately (e.g., WhatsApp messages during hearing).
  • Agree speaking boundaries.
  • Ensure the court knows they are present.

Remote coordination requires planning.

After the Hearing

  • Write down key points immediately.
  • Review the order carefully once received.
  • Calendar deadlines.
  • Prepare next steps promptly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Joining late.
  • Unstable internet.
  • Interrupting.
  • Appearing casual.
  • Being unprepared with documents.
  • Emotional over-speaking.

Remote hearings reward disciplined preparation.

Is a Remote Hearing Fair?

The court must ensure fairness. If you believe remote format prejudices your ability to present your case (e.g., complex evidence or vulnerability concerns), you may raise this with the court in advance.

The judge decides.

Why Remote Hearing Competence Matters

Remote hearings compress time. Judges expect focused submissions.

Disorganisation becomes more visible in digital format.

Technical fluency is now part of courtroom competence.

How JSH Law Supports Remote Hearing Preparation

  • Pre-hearing checklist review.
  • Technology readiness planning.
  • Structured speaking notes.
  • Bundle navigation strategy.
  • Safeguarding awareness integration.

Preparation reduces anxiety.

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Useful Links

Regulatory & Editorial Notice

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case depends on its own facts and procedural context.

JSH Law provides litigation support services to litigants in person. JSH Law is not a firm of solicitors and does not undertake reserved legal activities.