Justice centres in England and Wales
Short answer: A justice centre is a modern building that brings different courts and tribunals together, for example civil, family and tribunal hearings. Your letter tells you which court you are attending, so check it, then find the right centre below and plan extra time for security.
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About justice centres
A justice centre is a purpose-built or converted building that brings several courts and tribunals together in one place. Instead of separate buildings for civil, family and tribunal work, a justice centre may host all of them. The idea is to make it easier to reach the right service, to share facilities and to support people who have more than one legal issue.
What you might find inside
| Service | What it deals with |
|---|---|
| Civil courts | Debt, housing, contract and injury claims |
| Family courts | Children, protection and financial matters after separation |
| Tribunals | Employment, benefits, immigration and other specialist disputes |
| Support services | Advice, witness support and waiting areas |
The mix varies from one centre to another, so read your letter carefully.
Finding your way
Justice centres can be large, with several floors and many hearing rooms. To avoid delay:
- Allow extra time for security, which applies to everyone.
- Look for the screens or boards showing the day’s lists.
- Find your reference number and the room allocated.
- Ask the information desk if you cannot see your case.
- Tell the usher or clerk you have arrived.
Our guide to finding your courtroom explains each step.
Why justice centres exist
Bringing services together can save people from travelling between buildings. Someone with a housing problem, a family dispute and a benefits appeal may find that all three are dealt with at one address. Shared waiting areas, advice desks and meeting rooms can also make the day less stressful and give people a chance to speak to a support service before their hearing.
Security and access
Justice centres have security checks like other court buildings. Bring photo ID and your letter, and leave sharp items at home. Read security checks at court. Most centres are modern and have step-free access, lifts and accessible toilets, but contact the building beforehand if you need specific support, such as an interpreter or a quiet room.
Family hearings and children
Many justice centres host family hearings. These are usually private, and children do not normally attend. If you are supporting someone, see our guide for family members at court. If you have been affected by abuse, tell the court so it can arrange separate waiting areas.
Hearing lists
Lists for civil and family hearings are published on the official service. See the Civil Daily Cause List and the Family Daily Cause List for what they show. We link to the official service from each venue page, and we do not republish civil or family lists.
Watching a hearing
Civil and tribunal hearings are often open. Family hearings are often private. Read the public gallery guide and ask at the information desk about what is open.
Other directories
Justice centres often sit alongside other types of venue. See county courts, family courts and tribunal hearing centres. The court finder searches them all by name, town or postcode.
Frequently asked questions
What is a justice centre?
It is a building that houses several types of court or tribunal in one place, such as civil, family and tribunal hearings. It makes it easier for people to deal with related matters at one address.
How do I know which room to go to?
Your court letter names the court and often the room. Inside, screens or boards show the lists, and staff at the information desk can help.
Do justice centres have security?
Yes. Everyone is searched on entry, as at other courts. Allow extra time, and leave sharp objects at home.
Can I watch hearings at a justice centre?
Many hearings are open to the public, but family hearings and some others are private. Ask at the information desk.