What is a directions hearing in the family court?

If you’re preparing to undergo family court proceedings — be it for a child arrangements matter, a complex divorce case, or matrimonial finance dispute — there’s a fair chance you’ve been called to attend a directions hearing. 

A directions hearing is a preliminary meeting where a judge manages your case and sets out the next steps in your legal proceedings; they allow the judge to identify the specific issues at hand and dictate a clear route to resolving them. 

What is a directions hearing in the family court? 

Directions hearings serve several key functions in family court proceedings: the judge will use this time to review your case documents, identify the key issues in your case, and determine what evidence or reports may be required before your final hearing. 

During this hearing, the court will: 

• Set deadlines for submitting documents (for example, affidavits outlining your claims, financial statements, or communication records) 

• Arrange for any expert reports (such as child welfare assessments) 

• Schedule any future court dates 

The judge may also explore whether mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods could help resolve your case outside of court. 

What happens during a directions hearing? 

A directions hearing will typically last between 30 and 60 minutes. Both parties (and their legal representatives, if they have them) will attend, either in person or via video link. If the hearing involves a child or children, a Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) officer will also be present. 

The judge will review the case papers and may ask questions about the disputed issues. You'll receive a court order following the hearing that outlines exactly what needs to happen next, and by when. This order is legally binding, so it's important to follow all instructions and make sure you meet the specified deadlines. 

You’re entitled to have a legal representative, such as a family law barrister, join you for a directions hearing. Whilst you’ll still be asked questions by the judge about the circumstances around your case, a barrister can assist with presenting arguments on your behalf, clarifying points, and ensuring your interests are properly conveyed to the court. 

Through the direct access scheme, members of the public can hire family court representation without the need for a solicitor intermediary — often resulting in lower costs, more efficient communication, and quicker turnaround. You can find out more about the direct access scheme here. 

How can you prepare for a directions hearing? 

Before your hearing, ensure you've filed all required documents with the court and served copies to the other party. Bring any relevant paperwork with you, including financial statements, evidence supporting your case, and any correspondence with the other party. 

If you're representing yourself, be sure to prepare a brief summary of what you're asking the court to decide. Be ready to discuss realistic timescales for gathering any additional evidence or completing required tasks. If you’re using a legal representative, be sure to discuss these with them ahead of the hearing date. 

Common outcomes from directions hearings 

The judge may order various actions depending on your case type. For financial matters, this might include obtaining property valuations or pension reports. For children matters, the court may request a report from Cafcass or order supervised contact arrangements. 

Some cases may be referred to mediation or collaborative law processes. Others might have additional directions hearings scheduled, particularly if the case is complex or if parties need more time to comply with court orders.  

Following your directions hearing, be sure to keep detailed records of all communications with the other party and any professionals involved in your case. If circumstances change significantly before your next hearing, inform the court promptly. 

Ultimately, directions hearings are designed to streamline your case and ensure all necessary information is available before any concrete decisions can be made about your family's future. The real substantive issues will be addressed at later hearings once all required information has been gathered and reviewed. 

If you believe your case would benefit from the expertise of a family law barrister — either through support with drafting documents, comprehensive courtroom representation, or advice on your next steps — simply get in touch with our friendly team of consultants.