Practice directions
Practice Directions support relevant rules. In particular they set out procedures that mean to achieve uniformity in practice. In addition they tell parties what the courts expect of them and what the parties can expect of the courts if they for example do not comply with the courts' directions.
The information linked to from the section below is maintained by HM Courts Service, who are responsible for keeping these areas up to date. If you have any queries, please contact their web team.
Recent Practice Directions
Amendment No. 21 to the Consolidated Criminal Practice Direction (PDF 59kb)
(Criminal Proceedings: Witness Anonymity Orders; Forms)
August 2008
President of the Family Division guidance
Residence and Contact Orders: Domestic Violence and Harm (PDF 77kb)
May 2008
President of the Family Division guidance
Appointment of Guardians in accordance with Rule 9.5: President’s guidance dated 25th February 2005 – Revocation (PDF 40kb)
April 2008
Amendment no.19 to the Consolidated Criminal Practice Direction (PDF 47kb) [March 2008]
Forms of notice of intention to apply for certain behaviour orders if the defendant is convicted, and proposed application
Experts in family proceedings relating to children (PDF 149Kb)
February 2008
Practice Direction: Court Dress (No. 4) (PDF 76kb)
December 2007
Family Division - Video conferencing (PDF 61kb)
Published 2002