Directions

Directions are instructions given by the court.

In care proceedings, directions will normally cover such things as:

• Confirming a timetable for the case. Cases should be completed within 26 weeks. Directions will also be used to set out a schedule of court dates.
• Instructions about who needs to attend hearings.
• Whether any other adult who is important to the child should be joined as a party to the proceedings.
• What documents should be given to any person who is not a party to proceedings but who may, for example, be being put forward as a long-term carer for the child.
• Whether any expert reports are needed from those with specialist knowledge (e.g. a psychologist or doctor)
• What needs to be done and by when for the case to proceed to a final hearing including: what additional statements, reports and assessments the court needs, and who should prepare them.