Russell-Cooke podcasts
Transparency in court: understanding press attendance in family court proceedings
Apr 09, 2026
Season 2
Episode 4
Russell-Cooke solicitors
In this episode, family partner Hannah Field is joined by divorce consultant Rhiannon Ford to discuss transparency in the family courts and the role of the media. They look at how open justice functions within family proceedings, when journalists are permitted to attend hearings, and how reporting is balanced with the need to protect children and vulnerable individuals.
This episode covers:
- the principle of open justice in family courts
- circumstances in which journalists may attend hearings
- how reporting restrictions and anonymisation are applied
- how frequently the media is present in practice
- situations where the court may limit press access
- alternatives to court, including private hearings and arbitration