1. Who can be in the Family court room

What to expect at the Family Court

Who can be in the Family court room

Where to start
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Overview

All Family Court cases are closed to the public. Only you and the other people involved in the case are allowed inside.

A man is standing in front of people in the court room about to speak to the judge.

People inside the court room

The judge, lawyers, and other court staff may also be in the courtroom. Each of these people has a role to play in helping the Family Court to run smoothly.

Roles of the Family Court

There are strict rules about who else can enter the court room.

Children

Children aren’t usually allowed in the court room. You’ll need to arrange for childcare while you go to court. A judge will only want to speak with a child in court under very special circumstances. A judge may want to meet with the child and their lawyer in chambers before a hearing. 

Support person

You can bring a support person with you to the court. You must get permission first if you want them to come inside the court room with you. Let your lawyer or court staff know as soon as possible if you want to bring a support person in with you.

Lay assistant

A Lay Assistant can support you in court by helping you taking notes. Sometimes this role is called a McKenzie Friend. You’ll need to apply to have a lay assistant come into the court room with you.  

How to apply for a lay assistant

Journalists and the media

Accredited news media reports can be in the court room, but they are not allowed to publish information that can identify children or vulnerable people. It’s very rare that they would be present in the court room.

Restrictions from publishing information

Feeling overwhelmed?

Going to Family Court can be hard. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. There are services available to help and support through this time.

Visit our help page