Courts by region
Short answer: Pick your region to see every court and tribunal in it, with addresses, hearing lists and visitor tips. If you are not sure which court you need, check the address on your court letter, because the court that hears your case is not always the nearest one.
England and Wales are split here into the nine regions of England plus Wales. Each region page lists the Crown Courts, magistrates' courts, county courts, family courts and tribunals we cover, and explains how to get there and what to expect.
Choose a region
| Region | Venues | Crown and combined courts | Magistrates' courts |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Midlands | 19 | 3 | 5 |
| East of England | 34 | 6 | 12 |
| London | 50 | 10 | 14 |
| North East | 18 | 3 | 6 |
| North West | 38 | 7 | 13 |
| Scotland | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| South East | 44 | 4 | 12 |
| South West | 27 | 2 | 9 |
| Wales | 27 | 3 | 6 |
| West Midlands | 28 | 5 | 11 |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | 26 | 3 | 3 |
How courts are organised
Criminal cases begin in a magistrates' court. The most serious go on to a Crown Court. Civil disputes, such as debts and housing claims, go to a county court, with larger claims in the High Court. Family matters are heard in the Family Court, and specialist disputes in tribunals.
Before you travel
- Check the court, address and time on your letter.
- Look at the court's page here for directions and the latest hearing list.
- Allow for security: arrive 30 to 45 minutes early. See security checks at court.
- Use the hearing day planner for a reminder.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the court nearest to me?
Choose your region below, or use the court finder to search by name, town or postcode. The court that hears your case may not be the nearest one, so always follow the address on your court letter.
Which court will my case be heard in?
Criminal cases usually start in the magistrates' court covering the area where the offence is alleged to have happened. Serious cases then move to a Crown Court. Civil and family cases are normally dealt with in a court connected to where the parties live. Your letter names the court.
Is Wales part of the same court system?
Yes. England and Wales share one legal system, and the same types of court operate in both. In Wales you can ask to use Welsh in court.
Do all regions have the same types of court?
Broadly yes, but the number and size of venues differ. Cities have larger courts, and rural areas have fewer, so journeys can be longer.
Not sure where to start? Try the court finder, all courts A–Z or our court guides.