Exeter Law Courts Family Court Guide – Devon Family Court Contact Details & Directions

Exeter Law Courts
Southernhay Gardens
Exeter
EX1 1UH

Court Codes for Legal Professionals:

• Family Court Location Code: 198
• County Court Location Code: 198
• Crown Court Location Code: 423
• DX: 98440 Exeter 2

Main Telephone Numbers:

• General Enquiries: 01392 415 300
• Crown Court: 01392 415 330
• Crown Court Listing: 01392 415 332
• Citizens Advice: 0808 278 7845 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm)
• National Contact Centre (Civil & Family): 0300 123 5577 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm)
• Divorce Contact Centre: 0300 303 0642 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm)
• Crime Customer Service Centre: 0330 808 4407 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm, Saturday 8:30am to 2pm)
• Single Justice Service: 0300 303 0656 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)
• Family Public Law (C5 cases): 0330 808 4424
• Social Security & Child Support: 0300 123 1142
• Witness Care Unit: 01392 226051
• Witness Service: 0300 332 1000
• CASS+ Support Through Court: 01392 415 335

Email Addresses:

• Family Court Queries: [email protected] (including C100 applications)
• Civil Court Queries: [email protected]
• Crown Court: [email protected]
• Bailiffs/Enforcement: [email protected]
• Magistrates: [email protected]
• Crime Cases: [email protected]
• Single Justice Service: [email protected]
• Family Public Law (C5 cases): [email protected]
• Breathing Space Enquiries: [email protected]
• CASS+ Support: [email protected]
• Social Security Appeals: [email protected]

Opening Hours:

• Court Building Open: 9am to 5pm (Monday to Sunday)
• Telephone Enquiries: 9am to 4pm
• Counter Service: By appointment only

Exeter Law Courts is located 2,412 metres from Exeter St Davids, the city’s main railway station, taking approximately 22 minutes to walk. The court is more centrally located near Exeter Central station (approximately 800 metres away, about 10 minutes’ walk).

Walking from Exeter St Davids (22 minutes): Exit Exeter St Davids station and head straight across the car park, using the signposted passageway to the right of the Premier Inn hotel. Continue uphill towards the city centre via Queen Street, then follow signs to Southernhay Gardens. The walk is uphill from the station but downhill on the return journey.

Walking from Exeter Central (13 minutes): Exeter Central station is located on Queen Street in the city centre, just a short 13-minute walk from Exeter Law Courts. Exit the station and walk south along Queen Street, then turn onto Southernhay West to reach Southernhay Gardens. This is the most convenient station for court attendees.

Please see below a map showing the walking distance from Exeter Central (New Road Entrance) to Exeter law courts:

By Bus from Exeter St Davids: Multiple bus routes serve Exeter Law Courts from both train stations:

• Routes H, F, 1, 4, 7, 57, 155: These services run frequently between Exeter St Davids and the city centre
• Nearest Bus Stops: High Street, South Street, Paris Street (all within 1-5 minutes’ walk of the court)
• Journey time: Approximately 7-10 minutes
• Single fare: £2 (pay driver when boarding)

By Car: Driving from Exeter St Davids takes approximately 6 minutes via Sidwell Street and Paris Street. Follow signs for the city centre and Southernhay.

Parking Near Exeter Law Courts: There is no parking at the court building. The nearest public car parks are:

1. Magdalen Street Car Park (EX2 4HZ) – 350 metres from court (4 minutes’ walk)

• Charges: £4.50 for 2 hours, £18 all day
• Open 8am-10pm (no charges 10pm-8am)
• Pay by phone: 01392 541 000 (site code 29006)
• No height restriction, 2 EV charging spaces

2. Magdalen Road Car Park (EX2 4SU) – 400 metres from court (5 minutes’ walk)

• Charges: £4.50 for 2 hours, £18 all day
• Open 8am-10pm (no charges 10pm-8am)
• Pay by phone: 01392 541 000 (site code 29005)
• No height restriction, narrow 2.5m entrance

3. Princesshay Car Park (EX1 1GA) – 600 metres from court (7 minutes’ walk)

• Multi-storey car park
• Charges: £15 for 24 hours
• Height restriction: 1.98m (6’6″)
• 4 EV charging spaces on Level 5

Blue Badge Holders: May park for free in any designated space at the above car parks when displaying a valid blue badge.

Exeter Law Courts is a modern facility completed in 2004, designed to provide comprehensive support for all court users:

Accessibility Features

• Wheelchair Access: Ramped entrance with slight incline leading to the building
• Lifts: Available to all floors with level access into all courtrooms
• Disabled Toilets: Located on ground and second floors
• Hearing Enhancement: Portable hearing loop system available by prior arrangement (contact court in advance)
• Hidden Disabilities Support: Sunflower lanyards available on request
• Assistance Dogs: Welcome throughout the building

Court Facilities

• Consultation Rooms: 14 rooms available (7 on ground floor, 7 on second floor) – cannot be pre-booked but available first-come-first-served
• Public Toilets: Available on ground and second floors
• Baby Changing: Facilities located on ground and second floors (no key required)
• Refreshments: Vending machines on site with separate facilities for jurors
• WiFi: Access to GovWifi available throughout the building
• Prayer/Quiet Room: Available by prior arrangement – contact the court
• Video Facilities: Court video link and prison video link available by arrangement
• Waiting Areas: Public waiting areas outside each courtroom, with separate witness waiting area
• Support Services: CASS+ (Community Advice and Support Services) available on second floor
• Witness Service: Citizens Advice Witness Service available for support

Security: All visitors and possessions are searched by security officers upon entry. The building has a security arch – please notify security if you have a pacemaker.

For disability assistance or special requirements, contact the court on 01392 415 300 in advance of your hearing.

Attending a family court hearing at Exeter Law Courts can feel daunting, but understanding the process helps reduce anxiety. Preparation is key to achieving the best possible outcome, which is why we strongly recommend arranging a free initial consultation with our Exeter family lawyers before your hearing.

Getting Legal Guidance is Essential

Family law cases involving children, finances, or divorce proceedings have life-changing consequences. Our experienced family lawyers specialise in preparing clients for Exeter Law Courts hearings, ensuring you understand the process, have all necessary documentation, and present your case effectively.

Kabir Family Law’s specialists offer a FREE initial consultation where we can:

• Review your case and advise on the likely outcomes
• Help you prepare all required court documents and evidence
• Explain what the judge will be looking for in your specific case
• Provide guidance on court etiquette and how to present yourself
• Discuss the best strategy to achieve your desired outcome

On the Day of Your Hearing

When you arrive at Exeter Law Courts, you’ll go through security screening. Court ushers will direct you to the appropriate waiting area for your courtroom. During your hearing:

• The Judge: Will be addressed as “Sir” or “Madam” – they oversee proceedings and make decisions
• The Court Clerk: Manages court administration and paperwork
• The Usher: Assists with managing the courtroom and calling cases
• Your Hearing: The judge will hear evidence and submissions from both parties before making decisions

Family court hearings are typically held in private to protect the privacy of children and families involved.

Court Etiquette

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Dress smartly (business attire recommended
• Turn mobile phones to silent
• Stand when the judge enters and leaves
•  Address the judge as “Sir” or “Madam”
• Speak clearly when asked questions
• Remain calm and respectful

After Your Hearing

The judge may make decisions on the day or reserve judgment to deliver later. You’ll receive written confirmation of any orders made. Our family lawyers in Exeter can help you understand court orders and next steps.

With offices across the UK including Newcastle, York, Nottingham, Northampton, Cardiff, Coventry, and London, Kabir Family Law has the national reach to support clients throughout Devon and beyond. Whether you’re attending Exeter Law Courts or another family court, our family law specialists are here to guide you.

Thorough preparation significantly improves your confidence and the effectiveness of your court appearance:

Essential Documents to Bring

• Court hearing notice with case number and time
• Any court orders or previous judgments
• Financial documents (if relevant to your hearing)
• Evidence supporting your case (statements, photographs, correspondence)
• Photo identification (passport or driving licence)
• Notes or questions for your legal representative

What to Wear to Exeter Law Courts

Professional, smart-casual attire is appropriate. Avoid overly casual clothing, sportswear, or anything that might be considered disrespectful to the court.

Arriving at Court

• Aim to arrive 30-45 minutes before your hearing time
• Allow extra time for parking and security screening
• Locate your courtroom and check in with the usher
• Review your documents in a consultation room if needed

What NOT to Bring to Exeter Law Courts

• Weapons of any kind (including penknives)
• Large bags (unless necessary for documents)
• Food or drinks (except water in a clear bottle)
• Remember to turn your phone to silent before entering

Before Your Hearing Date at Exeter Law Courts

The most important preparation step is seeking legal advice. Contact Kabir Family Law for your free initial consultation at least 2-3 weeks before your hearing date to ensure adequate preparation time.

Kabir Family Law specialises exclusively in family law matters, providing expert guidance for clients attending Exeter Law Courts and Devon family courts. Our dedicated family law specialists understand the local court procedures and have extensive experience assisting clients with:

• Child custody and child arrangement orders
• Divorce proceedings and financial settlements
• Domestic abuse injunctions and protection orders
• Adoption and special guardianship applications
• International family law matters

Our nearest office to Devon is our Cardiff office, though we serve clients across the entire South West region. With additional offices in Newcastle, York, Nottingham, Northampton, Coventry, and London, we have the national strength to handle complex family law cases while providing personalised local expertise.

Why Choose Kabir Family Law

• Exclusive focus on family law – it’s all we do
• Free initial consultation on legal advice
• Experienced family lawyers who understand Devon family courts
• Empathetic, client-focused approach during difficult times
• National reach with local expertise

Don’t face Exeter Law Courts alone. Whether you’re dealing with child custody disputes, divorce proceedings, or any family law matter, our family law specialists in Devon are here to fight for your family’s future.

Arrange your FREE consultation today and take the first step toward securing the best outcome for your family. Call 0330 094 5880 NOW to arrange your free consultation or let us call you back. Don’t wait – early legal advice can make all the difference to your case outcome.