Family law guide
Part of: Your First Family Court Hearing
Attending the Cardiff family court can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to face it alone. Located just metres from Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre at 2 Park Street is one of Wales’ most accessible family courts. Whether you’re travelling from across Cardiff or further afield, getting to the court is straightforward, with excellent transport links by train, bus, and car.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need for attending Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre, including the complete contact directory, precise directions from Cardiff Central Station, parking information, and what to expect when you arrive. From understanding court facilities to knowing where to park, we’ve covered all the practical details to help reduce your stress on the day.
If you need legal support for your family law matter, Kabir Family Law specialises in cases heard at Cardiff family court and can guide you through every step of the process.
2 Park Street
Cardiff
CF10 1ET
• National Contact Centre (Civil & Family): 0300 123 5577 (Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-4:30pm)
• Welsh Language Helpline (Civil & Family): 0300 303 5174
• Support Through Court: 02920 343 685
• Court of Protection: 02920 376 443
• Family Public Law (Digital C5 cases): 0330 808 4424
• Business and Property Courts: 02920 376 410
• Administrative Court Office: 02920 376 460
• Divorce Contact Centre: 0300 303 0642
• Family matters: [email protected]
• Support services: [email protected]
• Court of Protection: [email protected]
• Possession cases: [email protected]
DX 99500 Caerdydd/Cardiff 6
09:00 – 16:30 (counter service by appointment only 10:00-14:00)
The court is remarkably accessible, located just 8 metres from Cardiff Central Station, making it a 1-minute walk. Simply exit the main station entrance and you’ll see the court building immediately on Park Street.
Exit Cardiff Central Station onto Wood Street, walk north turning onto Park Street where you’ll find the court entrance at number 2.
Multiple bus routes serve the area including 2, 6, 17, 21, 52, 58, and 63. The nearest stops are Wood Street Jr (107 metres, 2 minutes) and Westgate Street Kh (112 metres, 2 minutes). Cardiff Bus Interchange is 240-265 metres away, approximately 4 minutes’ walk.
Check live times at Cardiff Bus
Follow signs for Cardiff Central Station or the Principality Stadium. The court is easily accessible from the M4 motorway via city centre routes.
NCP Westgate Street (postcode CF10 1DZ) is the nearest car park, within walking distance. NCP Adam Street (CF24 2FH) offers 428 spaces with 12 disabled bays and 24-hour access. Other options include NCP Pellett Street (CF10 4FD) and NCP Rapports on David Street. Parking rates vary; early bird and standard tariffs are available. Pre-booking online can save money.
• Wheelchair access with ramp to entrance and lifts to all floors
• Level access throughout courtrooms and hearing rooms
• 12 disabled parking bays at NCP Adam Street car park
• Hearing loops in courtrooms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 13, 15, and 16
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards available on request
• Assistance dogs welcome throughout the building
• 17 private consultation rooms for client meetings
• Baby changing facilities
• WiFi available for court users
• Cold drinks vending machine (1st floor)
• Hot drinks and snacks vending (2nd and 3rd floors)
• Support Through Court service on-site for emotional and practical guidance
• Video link facilities available by prior arrangement
The court is designed to be accessible and welcoming to all visitors, with comprehensive facilities to support families during what can be a challenging time.
When you arrive at Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre, you’ll pass through security screening similar to airport procedures. Allow extra time for this process. You may need to remove coats, belts, and place bags through an X-ray scanner.
Once inside, check the court listings display to find your courtroom number and hearing time. Court ushers in the waiting areas can help direct you. Before your hearing, you’ll typically meet with your family law specialist (if you have legal assistance) in one of the consultation rooms.
The judge or magistrate will be seated at the front of the courtroom, with a court clerk nearby managing proceedings. You’ll be directed where to sit. Family court hearings are usually private, meaning only those involved in the case can attend.
Address the judge as “Sir” or “Madam.” Stand when the judge enters or leaves. Turn your mobile phone completely off. Speak clearly when asked questions and wait for your turn to speak.
• Documents: Bring all court papers, correspondence, and any supporting evidence. Have multiple copies if requested by your family lawyer.
• Dress Code: Smart casual attire is appropriate. Avoid overly casual clothing like shorts or sportswear.
• Timing: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled hearing time to allow for security, parking, and finding your courtroom.
• What to Bring: Photo ID, court documents, notepad and pen.
• What NOT to Bring: Weapons, sharp objects, or large bags are prohibited.
• Mobile Phones: Must be switched off completely inside courtrooms.
Being well-prepared helps reduce anxiety and ensures your hearing proceeds smoothly.
Kabir Family Law specialises in all areas of family law, with extensive experience providing assistance to clients at Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, child arrangements, domestic abuse matters, or financial settlements, our expert family law specialists understand Cardiff family court procedures and can provide the guidance you need during this difficult time.
We offer a free consultation on legal advice to discuss your case and explain your options clearly and compassionately.
Arrange a free consultation or book a time that suits you to discuss your issue with one of our family lawyers in Cardiff on 0292 192 1400 to discuss your options or let us call you back. We deal with all areas of family law, so why not drop us a call and see how we can help you in your family matter.
8 of 41 guides — scroll sideways for more
Section 37 Report
Section 47 Report Explained: What Happens During Section 47 Enquiries?
Placement Orders
Parental Alienation & Alienating Behaviours
Narcissistic Parental Alienation
Practice Direction 12J: Your Complete Guide to Domestic Abuse Protection in Family Court
Clare’s Law & Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme
Temporary Child Custody
Short videos from the Kabir Family Law team, explaining family law in plain English.
We are a team of legally trained family law and divorce specialists with years of experience across all areas of family law. We are not part of a firm of solicitors, do not undertake legal reserved activities unless permitted and are therefore entirely independent. Please subscribe to our mailing list.
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