Local Practice Directions

The following documents are Local Practice Directions applicable in the Family Courts in Cumbria issued either by the Northern Circuit Family Division Liaison Judge (a High Court Judge responsible for the North West Family Courts) or the Designated Family Judge for Cumbria.

The Local Practice Directions set out  the standards and procedures that apply in the Courts in Cumbria in certain situations. They also reinforce expectations placed upon professionals and parties involved in cases before the Family Court in Cumbria.

Such notes are guidance. They may be referred to in an order (usually by their 'short form' name) as if set out entirely in the order. They may also be referred to when an order is silent on a matter e.g the Court approach to urgent hearings or the Public Law Outline as a helpful indication of the Court's approach to the relevant situation, practice or issue.

If a Court Order in a specific case contradicts a Local Practice Direction, the Order takes precedence and must be complied with.