During these uncertain times and with varying government rulings across different areas of the country, the Financial Remedies Court has issued their latest advice regarding hearings conducted by telephone under the current COVID-19 guidelines.

Regarding financial remedies cases it has been advised that where possible hearings are conducted via a video platform (whether it is on Microsoft Teams, CVP, Zoom or otherwise) as this is likely to be more effective than via telephone. Hearings conducted via telephone should only really be used where there is no way in which a video hearing can take place.

In relation to the Financial Remedies Court guidelines, the President, Sir Andrew McFarlane, in his latest ‘View’ (at page 5) has said:

“…Where a parent is joining remotely to an important hearing, this should be via a video platform rather than over the phone (and the parent should be using video on the video platform rather than linking in by phone). Unless the situation is truly urgent, and there is no option but to do so, a telephone connection should not be used for a parent, who is not with her/his lawyers, to join a remote hearing which may determine an important decision about their child. More generally, telephone hearings should only be used in a child case for short (case management or consent) hearings and should only be used for more substantial hearings if a face-to-face, hybrid or video hearing cannot be established.”

It is expected that the current regime will remain in place until at least the Spring of 2021.  Whether the system will evolve thereafter remains to be seen.

Hunter and Uro serve rural and central Bedfordshire, together with the City of London to help with all you family law matters. If you need assistance or advice with any current or potential Court applications in the Family Court please contact our expert team today on 01234 889777 for a free consultation.