Northampton Family Court Guide | Kabir Family Law

Northampton Crown, County and Family Court

85-87 Lady’s Lane
Northampton
NN1 3HQ

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 08:30 to 17:00

Telephone Numbers:

• Crown Court General Enquiries: 01604 470 400
• Civil & Family Court National Contact Centre: 0300 123 5577 (Monday to Friday 8:30am-5pm)
• Divorce Contact Centre: 0300 303 0642 (Monday to Friday 10am-6pm)
• Family Public Law (Children in Care): 0330 808 4424
• Witness Services Enquiries: 0300 332 1000

Email Addresses:

• County Court Enquiries: enquiries.northampton.countycourt@justice.gov.uk
• Family Court Enquiries: family.northampton.countycourt@justice.gov.uk (Including C100 applications)
• Crown Court Enquiries: enquiries.northampton.crowncourt@justice.gov.uk
• Bailiffs Enquiries: bailiffs.northampton.countycourt@justice.gov.uk
• Breathing Space Enquiries: northampton.breathingspace@justice.gov.uk
• Family Public Law (Digital Process): contactfpl@justice.gov.uk (For case numbers starting with C5)

DX Number:

725380 Northampton 21

The court handles all types of family law cases including adoption, childcare arrangements following separation, divorce hearings, domestic abuse proceedings, and children in care matters.

From Northampton Railway Station:

The court is approximately 800 metres from Northampton Railway Station, taking 10-12 minutes to walk. The station is located at Black Lion Hill, and from there you’ll head east through the town centre towards Lady’s Lane.

Walking Directions:

Exit Northampton Railway Station and head east along Black Lion Hill towards the town centre. Continue straight onto Grafton Street, then bear right onto The Drapery. Turn left onto Abington Street, then right onto Lady’s Lane. The court building is located at 85-87 Lady’s Lane on your right-hand side.

By Bus:

Several bus routes serve the area near the court. The nearest stop is Northampton Bus Interchange, which is 260 metres (approximately 4 minutes’ walk) from Lady’s Lane. Bus routes include 11, 16, D2, D3, X4, 7, 7B, 54, and 58. Check live times at the Stagecoach Midlands website or use the Moovit app for real-time bus information.

By Car:

Driving from the train station takes approximately 3-4 minutes via the town centre roads. Follow Bridge Street, then turn onto Campbell Street and continue to Lady’s Lane.

Parking at Northampton Family Court:

There are no parking facilities at the court building itself. However, two council-operated car parks are located within 50 metres:

• Upper Mounts Car Park (NN1 3NR) – 310 spaces including 6 disabled bays. Costs: £1.10 for 1 hour, £2.20 for 2 hours, £5.50 for 5 hours. Open 24 hours with ANPR pay on return system.

• Newlands Car Park (NN1 3EL) – 59 spaces including 2 disabled bays. Costs: £1.10 for 1 hour, £2.20 for 2 hours, £8.80 all day. Open 24 hours.

Both car parks accept coins and card payments. Blue badge holders should contact the court in advance on 0300 123 5577 to discuss parking arrangements.

The court provides comprehensive facilities to ensure all visitors can access justice comfortably:

Accessibility Features at Northampton Family Court:

• Wheelchair access with ramp to building entrance
• Lift between ground floor and first floor
• Level access to all court rooms and hearing rooms
• Accessible toilets available
• Hearing loop facilities at counters and in courtrooms
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards available on request

Family-Friendly Facilities at Northampton Family Court:

• Baby changing facilities in ground floor public toilets
• Private interview rooms on the first floor for confidential discussions

Additional Amenities at Northampton Family Court:

• GovWifi available throughout the building
• Assistance dogs welcome
• Video conferencing facilities for remote hearings
• Prison to court video link facilities
• Security arch at entrance (inform security if you have a pacemaker)

Note: The cafeteria is currently unavailable. Visitors should plan accordingly, though there are numerous cafés and refreshment options in the surrounding Northampton town centre.
If you have a disability and need help attending a hearing, contact the specialist accessibility team on 0300 123 5577 before your court date.

Understanding the court process helps reduce anxiety on the day. When you arrive at Northampton Crown, County and Family Court, you’ll go through a security screening similar to airport security. All visitors and their possessions are searched, and you’ll pass through a security arch. If you have a pacemaker, inform the security officer immediately.

Inside the Court:

After security, you’ll find yourself in the main court building. Court staff called ushers will direct you to the correct courtroom or waiting area. The ushers wear name badges and are there to help answer procedural questions. You’ll also encounter the court clerk, who manages the administrative aspects of hearings.

During Your Hearing:

In the courtroom, the judge or magistrate will preside over proceedings from the bench. In family court matters, the atmosphere is generally less formal than criminal court, though respect and proper conduct are still essential. The judge will address questions to you and other parties. Speak clearly and address the judge as “Your Honour” or “Sir” or “Madam.” Wait to be asked to speak rather than interrupting proceedings.

After the Hearing:

Following the hearing, the judge will give directions or a decision. This may happen immediately or be reserved for a later date. Your solicitor will explain what happens next and any actions you need to take. Court staff can provide information about the next steps in your case.

Proper preparation ensures your court appearance goes smoothly. Here’s what you need to know:

What to Bring:

• Photo identification (passport or driving licence)
• All court documents and correspondence
• Any evidence you’ve been asked to present
• A notebook and pen for taking notes
• Contact details for your solicitor or support person

Dress Code:

Dress smartly and conservatively. Business casual attire is appropriate – think office wear rather than formal court attire. Avoid jeans, trainers, shorts, or revealing clothing.

Timing:

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled hearing time. This allows time for security screening, finding the correct courtroom, and speaking with your legal representative. Courts run to strict timetables, and late arrival may result in your case being heard in your absence.

What NOT to Bring:

Turn mobile phones to silent mode before entering the courtroom. Do not take photographs or recordings inside the court building – this is strictly prohibited. Do not bring food or hot drinks into courtrooms.

Kabir Family Law specialises in all aspects of family law and has extensive experience supporting clients at Northampton Crown, County and Family Court. Our expert family law specialists understand the local court procedures and can provide the skilled guidance you need during this challenging time.

Whether you’re facing divorce proceedings, need support with child custody arrangements, or require assistance with domestic abuse matters, our compassionate team offers clear advice and strong advocacy. We work closely with clients throughout Northampton and the surrounding areas, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

Our services include attendance at all family court hearings, help preparing court documents, negotiation with other parties, and comprehensive legal advice tailored to your circumstances. We offer a free consultation on legal advice to discuss your case and explain how we can help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation by calling on 01604 267900 or book a time that suits you to discuss your personal matter. 

Our Northampton Office – Just 0.3 Miles from the Court.

Our family lawyers in Northampton office is just 0.3 miles (approximately 6 minutes’ walk or 2 minutes’ drive) from Northampton Crown, County and Family Court, making it easy to meet with us before or after your court appearance. Located on Abington Street in the town centre, we can arrange appointments to suit your schedule and provide a comfortable, confidential environment to discuss your case.

Kabir Family Law – Northampton Office
20-30a Abington Street
Northampton
NN1 2JA

Direct Line: 01604 267900
Main Line: 0330 094 5880

 View our Northampton office location and directions →