Introduction to Court Day
A court day is when you attend court for a hearing or trial, giving you the chance to present your side of a case or respond to claims made against you. Courts in the UK deal with many types of cases, including criminal offences, family matters, civil disputes, and more. The main purpose of a court day is for the court to listen to everyone involved, consider the evidence, and make a fair decision according to the law.
Hearings and trials are both types of court proceedings, but they are not the same. A hearing is usually shorter and may focus on specific issues, such as bail or case management. A trial, on the other hand, is a more formal process where all the evidence is heard and a final judgment is made.
It’s important to arrive prepared and understand what to expect, as what happens in court can have a significant impact on your life. Knowing the process can help you feel more confident and ensure you meet your responsibilities on the day.
This page gives you an overview of what to expect on a court day, with links to more detailed guidance on each stage of the process. If you want to learn more about how courts operate, you can find further information to help you understand the wider legal system.
The court’s role is to resolve disputes or make decisions fairly, following legal rules and procedures set out in laws like the Civil Procedure Rules or the Criminal Procedure Rules, depending on the type of case. By understanding the process, you can better protect your rights and take the right steps before, during, and after your court day.
Scheduling and Preparing for Your Court Day
When your case is due to be heard in court, you will receive official notification of your court date. This is usually sent by letter or email, and will include details of the time, location, and courtroom. The process for scheduling and notifying parties is governed by specific rules, such as the Civil Procedure Rules 1998 (CPR) Part 39, which set out how hearings are arranged and what happens if parties do not attend.
It’s important to prepare thoroughly before your court day. Start by making sure you understand the types of hearings or trials that may be scheduled, as each one may have different requirements and procedures. If your case is being heard at the Crown Court, for example, the process may differ from hearings in other courts.
Before attending, review all relevant documents, evidence, and any court forms you may have been asked to complete. Being well-prepared can help you feel more confident and ensure you present your case effectively. For more practical tips, see our guide on preparing for court.
On the day of your hearing, you’ll need to go through a check-in process at the court building. Knowing what to expect when arriving and checking in at court can help the day run smoothly. The HM Courts & Tribunals Service is responsible for managing court administration and provides further information about court facilities and support available to visitors.
Arriving and Checking In at Court
When you arrive at court for your hearing or trial, you’ll need to pass through security checks and check in at reception before your case is called. It’s important to bring any documents or identification you’ve been asked for, such as your hearing notice or photo ID. Courts also offer court accommodations for disabled individuals, so if you have accessibility needs, support is available to help you navigate the building and proceedings.
While waiting, remember to follow court etiquette: remain quiet, switch off your mobile phone, and dress smartly. For a step-by-step guide to the process, including what to expect at security and reception, see our detailed page on arriving and checking in at court.
If you’re attending a criminal case, you can also learn more about how the Crown Court operates and what to expect on the day.
The Hearing Process
During a court hearing or trial in the UK, everyone in the courtroom has a clear role. The judge oversees the process, ensuring the law is followed and making decisions on legal matters. In criminal trials, a jury may also be present to decide on the facts of the case, while in many civil hearings, only the judge decides the outcome. The parties involved – such as the claimant and defendant – may be represented by lawyers, who speak on their behalf and guide them through the proceedings.
The hearing usually begins with opening statements, where each side outlines their case. This is followed by making your case (oral submissions) and presenting evidence and witnesses. Witnesses may be called to give evidence, and both sides have the chance to question them. The process ends with closing submissions, where each party summarises their arguments before the judge (and jury, if present) makes a decision.
It’s important to present your case clearly and provide all relevant evidence, as the outcome often depends on how well your arguments and proof are communicated. The rules for how hearings and trials are conducted – especially in civil cases – are set out in the Civil Procedure Rules 1998. For serious criminal matters, proceedings take place in the Crown Court.
There are differences between hearings and trials: hearings are often shorter and may deal with specific issues, while trials involve a full examination of all the evidence. For a step-by-step guide to what happens during a court hearing or trial, visit our detailed hearing process page.
Jury Verdicts (If Applicable)
In some court cases – such as serious criminal trials in the Crown Court – a jury is responsible for deciding whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. The jury listens to the evidence, considers the facts, and then reaches a verdict. This decision directly affects the outcome of the case. However, not all hearings or trials involve a jury; for example, most civil cases and many criminal cases in the Magistrates’ Court are decided by a judge or magistrates alone.
The way a jury is selected and how it operates is governed by the Jury Act 1974, which sets out the rules for jury service in the UK.
If you want to understand more about how juries reach decisions, what happens during their deliberations, and the steps that follow a verdict, visit our page on jury verdicts for detailed information.
Judgment and Next Steps
After the hearing or trial, the court will deliver its judgment. This is the official decision made by the judge or magistrates, which may be given immediately or sent to you later in writing. The outcome could include a decision in favour of one party, the issuing of a court order, or, in some cases, dismissal of the case. If you want to learn more about what happens if your case is dismissed or are considering withdrawing or stopping your court case, there are specific steps and implications to be aware of.
Once judgment is given, it is important to understand your responsibilities and the possible next steps. Whether you need to comply with court orders, consider an appeal, or take action to enforce a decision, knowing what to do next is crucial. The rules for judgments in civil cases are set out in the Civil Procedure Rules 1998 (CPR), Part 40, which outline how judgments should be delivered and what they mean for the parties involved.
For a detailed guide on what happens after a court judgment, including your options for appeals, enforcement, and how to comply with orders, visit our dedicated page on judgment and next steps.
Additional Considerations for Court Day
Attending court involves more than just turning up on the day – there are a few important factors to keep in mind to make sure you’re fully prepared.
Court Costs, Fees, and Funding
Before your hearing or trial, it’s important to understand the potential costs involved. You may need to pay fees to start or continue a case. For a full breakdown of what these might include, see court costs, fees and funding and the official Court costs and fees guide. If you’re concerned about how to pay for your case, there are several options, including legal aid or help with fees if you’re on a low income – learn more about funding your case.
Alternatives to Court
Going to court isn’t always the only option. In many cases, you can resolve disputes without a formal hearing by settling your case or through mediation. These alternatives can save time, stress, and money, and may lead to more flexible outcomes.
Cases Involving Children
If your case involves children, special rules and procedures apply to ensure their wellbeing is prioritised. For more information on how the courts handle these sensitive matters, visit our section on court proceedings involving children.
Support for Disabled Individuals
Courts in the UK are required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled people can participate fully in proceedings. This includes physical access, communication support, and other accommodations. For a comprehensive overview of your disability rights in court, see our dedicated guide.
Tribunals as an Alternative Process
Some legal issues, such as employment disputes, are dealt with by tribunals rather than traditional courts. Tribunals are generally less formal and focus on specific areas of law. To see what happens at a tribunal hearing, visit Attending your employment tribunal hearing – Citizens Advice.
Consider All Your Options
Before and during your court proceedings, take time to consider all your options. Understanding the different routes available can help you make informed decisions and may lead to a quicker or less stressful resolution. If you’re unsure, seek professional advice or explore our related guides for further support.
Related Topics and Next Steps
Attending court can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect and where to find reliable information can make the process much easier. If you’re still at the beginning of your legal journey, you may find it helpful to learn more about starting a claim, including how to issue proceedings and what’s required to begin a case. If you are responding to a claim, our guide on defending against a claim explains your rights and responsibilities, and what steps you need to take.
Before your court day, you may want to read about preparing to go to court, which covers practical tips and important steps to help you feel ready and organised. If you’re still deciding whether court is the right option, see our advice on considering going to court to weigh up your options and understand potential outcomes.
Understanding the paperwork is also crucial. Visit our guide on court forms for help with the documents you may need, including the Form N1: Claim Form, which is used to start a claim in the County Court.
If your circumstances change and you wish to stop your case, our section on withdrawing or stopping your court case explains how claim discontinuance works. For the official legal rules on this process, you can refer to Claim Discontinuance.
For a deeper understanding of the rules that govern court hearings and trials in England and Wales, the Civil Procedure Rules 1998 (CPR) set out the procedures you and the court must follow.
Exploring these topics will help you feel more confident and prepared, whatever stage you are at. Taking time to understand the process and your options is one of the best ways to protect your rights and make informed decisions throughout your legal journey.
