Halifax & Bradford Family Court Guide | Kabir Family Law

Bradford Combined Court Centre

Exchange Square
Drake Street
Bradford
West Yorkshire
BD1 1JA

Court Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Counter Service (by appointment only): 10:00am – 2:00pm
Bailiff Office: 8:30am – 10:00am

Family Court Contact Numbers:

• National Contact Centre (Civil & Family): 0300 123 5577 (Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm)
• Divorce Contact Centre: 0300 303 0642 (Monday-Friday, 10:00am-6:00pm)
• Disability Support Line: 0300 303 0642
• Jury Service: 01274 843 509
• Citizens Advice: 0300 332 1000

Family Court Email Addresses:

• Divorce Queries: BradfordFamily@justice.gov.uk
• Family Court Applications: familyapplicationsbradford@justice.gov.uk
• Family Court Orders: familyordersbradford@justice.gov.uk
• Financial Remedy Enquiries: FRBradford@justice.gov.uk
• General Divorce: divorcecase@justice.gov.uk
• Civil County Court Enquiries: enquiries.bradford.countycourt@justice.gov.uk
• Breathing Space Enquiries: bradford.breathingspace@justice.gov.uk
• Bailiffs: Bailiffs.bradford.countycourt@justice.gov.uk

DX Number: 702083 Bradford 2

Important Note for Halifax Residents: Halifax County Court and Family Court permanently closed and transferred all family court business to Bradford Combined Court Centre. This ensures you have access to modern facilities and comprehensive family court services.

Bradford Combined Court Centre is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Halifax by train, making it easily accessible for all Halifax family court attendees.

From Halifax Railway Station:

The fastest and most convenient route is by train. Direct services run every 15 minutes from Halifax to Bradford Interchange, taking approximately 10 minutes. The court is then a short 7-8 minute walk (approximately 486-544 metres) from Bradford Interchange.

Step-by-Step Walking Directions from Bradford Interchange:

Exit Bradford Interchange and head north towards Bridge Street. Continue along Hall Ings, then turn right onto Drake Street. Bradford Combined Court Centre is located in Exchange Square, immediately visible on your right. The building is clearly signposted with “Bradford Law Courts” displayed prominently.

Please find below a map showing walking directions from Bradford Interchange to the Bradford Law Courts: 

By Bus from Halifax:

First Halifax operates bus services from Halifax to Bradford. Bus routes include regular services departing from Godley Bridge in Halifax to various stops near the court including Market Street, Bridge Street, and Hall Ings. Journey time is approximately 20 minutes. The nearest bus stops to the court are Market Street (Stop M1), Bridge Street (Stop S15), and Hall Ings (Stop H3), all within a 4-5 minute walk.

Check live times at: First Bus West Yorkshire

By Car from Halifax:

The driving distance from Halifax to Bradford Combined Court Centre is approximately 9 miles via the A647, taking around 19-20 minutes in normal traffic conditions. Use postcode BD1 1JA for satellite navigation. Below is a map for directions: 

Parking Near Bradford Combined Court Centre:

The court does not have its own car park. Nearby parking options include:

• Crown Court Car Park – Vicar Lane (closest option, short walk)
• NCP Bradford Southgate – nearby with multiple spaces
• Kirkgate Shopping Centre Car Park – walking distance
• On-street parking – available via pay-and-display and cashless payment (Ringo app)
• JustPark spaces – from £0.30 per hour, pre-bookable

Blue Badge holders: Blue Badge parking is available by prior arrangement. Please telephone 01274 840274 in advance to make arrangements.

Parking costs vary but typically range from £0.30-£5.00 per hour depending on location and duration. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your hearing to allow time for parking and security checks.

Bradford Combined Court Centre is a modern, fully accessible facility designed to accommodate all visitors comfortably and safely.

Accessibility Features:

• Full wheelchair access with level entry via Exchange Square
• Lift access to all floors (note: some lift restrictions may apply)
• Hearing enhancement facilities and hearing loops in all courtrooms
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network support
• Lanyards available on request for those who need additional support
• Assistance dogs welcome throughout the building

Family-Friendly Facilities:

• Baby changing facilities available
• 18 private interview rooms for confidential discussions with your family law specialist
• Separate waiting areas for witnesses providing privacy and comfort
• Prayer/Quiet Room available for reflection

Additional Amenities:

• Free WiFi access (GovWifi available throughout the building)
• Refreshment facilities available
• Video conferencing facilities and video link suites for vulnerable witnesses (available by prior arrangement)
• Prison to court video link facilities

Security: All visitors must pass through security screening on entry. Please do not bring prohibited items including sharp objects, liquids over 100ml, or large bags. Allow extra time for security procedures, especially during busy periods.

Understanding what happens at a family court hearing can help reduce anxiety and ensure you’re properly prepared.

On Arrival:

When you arrive at Bradford Combined Court Centre, you’ll enter through the main entrance on Exchange Square. Present yourself at security where you’ll pass through metal detectors and your bags will be scanned. After clearing security, proceed to the reception desk where court staff will direct you to the appropriate waiting area for your hearing. Court ushers will be on hand to answer questions and guide you throughout the building.

The Hearing:

You’ll meet several court officials during your hearing. The judge presides over the case and makes decisions. The court clerk manages documents and records proceedings. The usher manages the courtroom, calling cases and ensuring everything runs smoothly. In family court hearings, the atmosphere is typically less formal than criminal courts, though respect and proper conduct are always expected. The judge will hear evidence and submissions from both parties or their representatives before making decisions on the matters before the court.

Understanding Your Legal Options:

Before attending your hearing, it’s crucial to have expert legal representation who understands the complexities of family law proceedings. If you’re dealing with matters involving children, our experienced Child custody lawyers in Halifax can provide specialist guidance on child arrangements, parenting plans, and ensuring your children’s best interests are represented throughout the court process. Having the right legal support can make a significant difference to both the proceedings and the outcome.

Court Etiquette:

Address the judge as “Sir” or “Madam” or “Your Honour.” Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom. Switch your mobile phone to silent mode before entering. Speak clearly when asked questions and wait for your turn to speak. Dress smartly and appropriately to show respect for the court process.

After the Hearing:

Following the hearing, the judge will either make a decision immediately or reserve judgment to provide a written decision later. Court orders will be prepared and copies provided to all parties. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the order or next steps, the family law specialists at Kabir Family Law can explain everything clearly and advise on any further action needed.

Proper preparation is essential for a successful court hearing. Here’s your essential checklist:

Documents to Bring:

• Court papers and hearing notice with case number
• Any evidence or supporting documents filed with the court
• Photo identification (passport or driving licence)
• Notes or questions you want to raise (but remember these should have been filed in advance if required)
• Any orders from previous hearings

What to Wear: Smart, conservative clothing is appropriate. Business casual or formal attire shows respect for the court. Avoid jeans, trainers, shorts, or clothing with slogans or offensive imagery.

Timing: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled hearing time. This allows time for parking, security screening, finding the correct courtroom, and composing yourself before the hearing. Court lists can run late, so bring something to read while waiting.

What NOT to Bring: Do not bring sharp objects, large amounts of liquid, excessive bags, or any prohibited items. Leave valuables at home where possible. Photography and recording are strictly prohibited in court buildings.

Mental Preparation: Court hearings are stressful, but remember that judges hear family cases daily and understand the emotional nature of family proceedings. Having experienced family law specialists from Kabir Family Law supporting you can significantly reduce stress and ensure your case is presented effectively.

Kabir Family Law specialises exclusively in family law matters and has extensive experience supporting clients through family court proceedings at Bradford Combined Court Centre and courts throughout Yorkshire. Our experienced family law specialists understand the local court system and can guide you through every stage of the process, from initial applications to final hearings.

Whether you’re dealing with divorce, child arrangements, financial settlements, or any other family law matter heard at Bradford Combined Court Centre, we provide clear, practical advice combined with compassionate support. We understand that attending court for Halifax family matters now means travelling to Bradford, and we’re here to make that process as smooth as possible.

Contact our family lawyers in Halifax to arrange a free consultation on legal advice. Arrange a free consultation to discuss your issue or call us on 01904 221 400 to discuss your options.