Assumption: "A case has to go to a final hearing before the court can decide it."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
Many people expect a court case to run to a full final hearing with oral evidence, and assume the court must hear it.
Court Reality
In some cases, a court has a broad discretion to end family proceedings early, without a final hearing, if it is satisfied that carrying on would not benefit the child. Whether this happens depends on the facts, the stage the case has reached and the evidence already before the court. It is not automatic. Get advice on your own case.
Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.
The Gap?
"A case has to go to a final hearing before the court can decide it."
Court Reality
In some cases, a court has a broad discretion to end family proceedings early, without a final hearing, if it is satisfied that carrying on would not benefit the child. Whether this happens depends on the facts, the stage the case has reached and the evidence already before the court. It is not automatic. Get advice on your own case.
Experienced a gap between what you thought you knew about family court and the reality? Share your own and get credited.
familycourtbridge.org
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
Find your supportCookie Consent
We use essential cookies only to provide you with the best experience on our website. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.