Family proceedings court

The main provisions that affected law and procedure in the family proceedings court were: a.

The family proceedings court played a key role in what are called: a.

Public law cases (e.g. applications for care or supervision orders in respect of children who are at risk, usually brought by local authorities) b.

Applications by spouses for financial provision for themselves, i.e., provision for parties who remain married—maintenance arrangements for children are for the most part dealt with by the Child Support Agency (CSA) b. Non-molestation orders to prevent domestic violence and involving, where appropriate, the use of powers to arrest c. Occupation orders to keep a spouse out of the family home and also involving, where appropriate, the use of powers to arrest d. Declaration of parentage e. Adoption, i.e., orders giving parental rights and duties in respect of a child to adoptive parents f. Enforcement concerning, for example: i.

Family panels are made up of magistrates elected by their local colleagues for this work on the basis of their aptitude and personal suitability (except in London where different arrangements exist).

It also elects enough deputy court chairmen to ensure that family proceedings are always chaired by someone trained for this role.