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Hi I have a family court date in a few weeks
As a respondent, I understand the applicant will talk first.
Can anybody with experience in court explain how it starts, for example, will the judge ask us both in turn
Why are you here today etc?
Or as a respondent, do I have to give a response to the applicant's first speech?
It's best to go with a position statement explaining what you want and why. Stay child focused. Don't interrupt the applicant, just make notes and wait until it's your turn to speak. There will be a request to the court from the applicant and you can write down your views on that in the position statement. There are helpful guides on the advicenow.org.uk website on the process and representing yourself in court.
- Samaritans – call 116 123
- Shout – text the word ‘Shout’ to 85258
