Families need local courts

Closing courts may make sense on a Government spreadsheet, but the reality is that it will have a profound impact on local people who require courts at a deeply emotional and difficult time in their life.

Many who use the courts are vulnerable and of limited means. For these people to be told they now have to travel to a court miles away will cause them further stress, and additional costs. The system is already struggling due to a combination of funding cuts, fewer judges and an increase in the number of people representing themselves in the family court.

That is why Resolution is calling on the Government to reconsider and come forward with plans for modernising family courts across the country, before any court closes its doors for good.

Miss Jo Edwards,

Chair, Resolution family law organisation