Family Court Hearings
When you begin family law proceedings, you may be required to attend Court multiple times before your matter is ready for trial. Each appearance has a specific purpose, and understanding the types of hearings involved can help manage your expectations.
There are several types of family court hearings, including:
- Directions Hearings
- Interim Hearings
- Argument Hearings.
Directions Hearing
A Directions Hearing is typically a short administrative appearance designed to help move the matter forward. At this stage, the Court can make procedural orders to progress your case or encourage resolution without the need for a trial.
Orders made at a Directions Hearing may include:
- An adjournment if the parties appear close to agreement
- Referral to conciliation or mediation
- A Children’s Conference to help parties agree on a parenting plan, which can later be formalised as parenting orders.
Interim Hearing
An Interim Hearing is a short hearing (usually 15–30 minutes) where the Court makes temporary orders. These interim orders remain in place until final orders are made or until they are varied or set aside at a later hearing.
Common types of interim orders include:
- Injunctions to stop a party from selling or disposing of assets
- Exclusion orders, including who may live in the family home
- Orders for the sale of the family home
- Parenting orders addressing who the children live with or spend time with
- Restrictions on communication between parties
- Alcohol or drug testing, or behavioural monitoring
- Interim spousal maintenance payments.
Interim hearings are important because they can significantly affect day-to-day arrangements for children, finances, or property during proceedings.
Argument Hearing
An Argument Hearing is required when the parties need more time to make detailed submissions to the Judge about the orders they are seeking. This may be necessary where:
- The legal or factual issues are complex and need explanation
- The parties are in significant disagreement
- There are preliminary disputes that must be resolved before trial
Argument hearings can take a few hours or more, depending on the matter’s complexity.
Contact Us
If you’re unsure about what to expect during any stage of your family law matter, our experienced practitioners can guide you through the process. We offer a free 30-minute consultation to help you get started with confidence.
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You can also read more about our Family Law services here.
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