Legal Jargon

The process where one side’s counsel (barrister) seeks to challenge or test a witness’s evidence by asking them questions in court.

An application or ‘request’ asking the court to consider a case and make a judgement.

Another term for a barrister – the person(s) who represent you in court.

The legal costs charged to you by your legal team for working on your behalf in relation to the claim, together with any expenses in relation to this (see also Disbursements).

An order that makes an agreement between two parties legally binding, Consent orders can be made at court or in writing.

The point of divorce where the court confirms that the divorce should be granted on the basis of the information contained in the petition and the acknowledgement of service.

The Act of Parliament dealing with child-related matters, including orders that a court can make.

A court order that regulates where a child lives following the separation and divorce of their parents and what time they spend with each parent. Child arrangements orders are only made if there is a dispute between the parents that they cannot resolve between themselves. If there is no dispute, no order is required.

Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. A service that is independent from the courts and undertakes a safeguarding check (including any previous police and social services involvement with the parties) prior to the first hearing. CAFCASS also provides information and advice as to the best interests of the children throughout proceedings, if required to do so. In Care proceedings, a CAFCASS officer will be the child’s court appointed guardian who looks after their interests from a legal perspective.

Items of value. These can include land, buildings, money held in bank accounts and investments, as well as personal items such as vehicles, furniture, art and jewellery.