Covid-19 & Remote Hearings: Representing you in Family Court

During the lockdown virtual Family Court hearings being held remotely by video conference call has increased by 500%. This is a very positive move forward for the court system, and it wonderful to see them embracing technology that can help the case handling process be significantly more productive.

But, there is a growing concern amongst legal professionals and charities that video hearings will put some people at a significant disadvantage especially in highly sensitive cases involving:

• Dispute resolution of complex emotionally-charged issues
• Defendants who do not have the technology to access video hearings
• Children orders, especially cases involving the removal of children
• Domestic abuse victims being virtually face-to-face with their abuse

Defendants who do not have internet access or video call technology on a phone, tablet or computer can simple call into the virtual hearing. But this puts them at a huge disadvantage, as they can’t see anyone else and everyone else cannot see them. This can result in their defense being less likely to be heard or successful since their facial expressions and body language cannot be seen.

Defendants may not have living arrangements that allow them to have a secure private space to make the video call.

And because Defendants are not standing in a Court of Law in front of a judge and lawyers, they may not appreciate the importance and impact the outcome of the case may have on themselves or their families.

Hopkins can can represent you at remote hearings in any area of the UK.  Our goal is to help reduce your chances that the facts of your circumstances have not been heard properly by the court.

Throughout the lockdown our teams have been successfully and securely supporting our clients from home via video calls, phone calls and email.

If you would like help, speak to a member of our team today on 01623468468 or use the enquiry form below.