From the 27th January 2025, journalists and bloggers will be able to report on cases in the Family Courts in England and Wales in the event a transparency order is granted by the Court.
A transparency order will allow journalists and bloggers to highlight the circumstances of the case whilst protecting the anonymity of the children and the family. There will be a presumption that an order is granted unless there is a legitimate reason not to.
Should an order be granted, family members (whilst remaining anonymous) will have the opportunity to speak with the journalist without being at risk of contempt of Court. However, the family members are still restricted from publishing any information regarding the case themselves, or re-publishing any media articles that risks the identification of the child subject to proceedings.
It is hoped that this helps people understand the family justice system and to improve public confidence.
The reports will cover cases involving the Local Authority in care proceedings, and in Children Act proceedings but will not include financial remedy proceedings or applications under the Family Law Act 1996, e.g. non-molestation orders.
If you require assistance in respect of children matters, please contact our family team at one of our four offices, including Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe, Darlington and Stockton.
