Going to court is stressful and difficult, no matter why you have to go. Below is a brief guide that can help you if you have to go to Reading family court; it tells you everything you need to know, from where it is and how to get there, to what going to a court is like. If you need further family law advice, contact us today.
Where is Reading Divorce Court?
You can find the Reading County Court and Family Court on Friar Street, Reading. It is operated by Her Majesty's Courts Service. The building contains the city's county court and family court. Family courts are the ones that deal with divorces, child custody, child and spousal maintenance and so on.
If you have to go there or write to them, the address is:
Hearing Centre 160-163 Friar Street
Reading
Berkshire
RG1 1HE
Their phone number is 0118 987 0500. The Reading County Court and Family Court email address is [email protected]
What's It Like to Go to Reading Family Law Courts?
Going to court, no matter the reason, is something that should be taken seriously.
How to prepare. When you go to court, bring your hearing letter and case number, any papers you need for your hearing, and something to eat and drink (with the exception of alcohol). If you’re not sure what you need to bring, talk to your lawyer.
If the hearing will require you to meet your partner, prepare yourself for this so that you can remain calm and collected. Even aside from that you might find court a difficult, awkward or intimidating experience—but an experienced lawyer can help you through it.
You can wear what you want, although it is encouraged that you dress smartly. The only exception is that you can’t wear anything on your head except for religious reasons.
Arriving at the court. Be clear on how you’re going to get to the court before the day itself, so that you’re properly prepared. You should ideally arrive 30 minutes before the time stated on your hearing letter. Depending on the order in which the cases are seen, you may have to wait a while.
When you get to court, your bags and pockets will be checked like they would be at an airport. That’s because there are certain things you aren’t allowed to bring into the court, like weapons and alcohol. Unlike at an airport, however, you can have your things back when you leave.
In the hearing. Put your phone on silent, and don’t take any photos and videos. The first thing you’ll have to do is stand when a member of staff says ‘all rise’, which means that the judge/magistrate is about to enter the room. You’ll be told when it’s your turn to speak and what you have to do. Again, this can be nerve-wracking, but your lawyer will be there with you.
For more information on how we can help you, contact our family solicitors in Reading today.
