The practical court day — what actually happens at each hearing type

REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-28

Walk into every hearing knowing the drill

Different hearing types run differently. Each one below explains what to expect, what to bring, and what the judge is trying to achieve — so you're never caught off guard.

FHDRA (first hearing — child arrangements)

A dispute-resolution appointment, 30–45 min. Cafcass safeguarding letter is discussed; issues identified; a plan set. No witnesses give evidence; you don't "fight" here. Bring: your position statement, the safeguarding letter, contact proposals. Outcome: directions to the next hearing.

Case management / issue resolution hearings

CMH straightens the file (bundle, disclosure, witness lists). IRH narrows the dispute → settlement or full final hearing. Concise, administrative, decisive.

Fact-finding hearing

A mini-trial on disputed abuse allegations (see our fact-finding guide). Witnesses, cross-exam, a per-allegation judgment. Bring: your specifically-addressed response, evidence from the date, a calm prepared head.

Financial first appointment & FDR

First appointment: disclosure checked, issues identified, settlement explored (Form E discussed). FDR: the judge gives a non-binding indication of the likely order — treat it as the real settlement opportunity it is. Bring: Form E + documents, WP offers, openness.

Final hearing (children or financial)

The full trial. Position statements, witness statements relied on, cross-exam, skeleton arguments, closing submissions. Days matter — be ready, bring the bundle, expect a judgment (delivered or reserved).

Universal court-day rules

Arrive 30 min early; clear security; report to the court office/listing
Dress respectably; silent phone; no recording
Address the judge as "sir/madam" (district judges) or "my lord/lady" (High Court) until told otherwise — judges are relaxed but respect is expected
Ask for a record of anything you don't follow; request the order to be read back if needed

Official links

What to expect in court: https://www.gov.uk/going-to-court/coming-to-court
https://www.gov.uk/looking-after-children-divorce

This page is general information, not legal advice. YourFamilyCase.co.uk is an independent information directory and is not affiliated with HMCTS or gov.uk.

Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.