Benson Legal Services

New Year New you New ideas Same Family Court System

If you are going to initiate legal proceedings or you have an existing matter before
the UK court, consider the following:

Before you commence with proceedings, engage in mediation: Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is a prerequisite in the UK.
You may be able to reach an agreement and may not need to go through the lengthy and expensive litigation process. If you reach an agreement, get a consent order drafted to reflect the agreement reached.
Check whether you are exempted from mediation especially if you have been a victim of domestic abuse.
Understand the process and complete the right forms. Pay the court fees as your application will not be issued without the right fees paid. Check EX50 for court fees if you reside in the UK.
If the matter involves children, engage with Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Services (Cafcass) and let the child (ren)’s best interest be your focus.
Understand the court process – You can do so by contacting you local citizens advice bureau for first hand information or consult a solicitor.
Know your case inside out and gather your evidence.
Diarise all court dates to ensure you attend and be on time. Attend an hour early before the start time to engage in prehearing discussions.
Diarise relevant court directions to ensure compliance. For example if you are due to file a statement or a piece of evidence by 4pm on 10 th February 2026, ensure you file it by 12noon on the said date.
Diarise relevant court directions to ensure compliance. For example if you are due to file a statement or a piece of evidence by 4pm on 10 th February 2026, ensure you file it by 12noon on the said date.

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