Going to court

Sometimes, you might have to go to a family court to decide what kind of care is best for you.

In family court, the judge listens to everyone involved to make sure you and your family are safe and well taken care of.

When you're in court, you can ask to talk to the judge and tell them how you feel. You can also get help from someone called an advocate to support you through it all.

What does it mean?

Advocate

An advocate is someone who can help you say what you want at a meeting, and make sure you understand everything that’s been said. They will also support you if you have to go to court. If you want to make a complaint they can help with this, too.

Court

A court is somewhere where people sometimes have to go to have decisions made for them.

There are two types of courts: Civil Court and Criminal Court.

Civil Court / Family Court

A judge in a family court is responsible for making decisions that ensure the safety and well-being of you and your family.

Criminal court

Criminal court is where people go when they might have done something wrong.

If you want to understand what any legal words or acronyms mean the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) website have created a helpful glossary of commonly used terms and words.