News release

TAYLOR&EMMET WELCOMES NEW FAMILY COURT RULES

Sheffield’s Taylor&Emmet Solicitors is cautiously backing proposals for media access in family courts, as it believes it will lead to greater public understanding of the system.

Taylor&Emmet is welcoming Secretary of State, Jack Straw’s, announcement that he wants more openness in family courts so justice can be seen to be done, but the firm is keen to see what exactly will be proposed.

Pat Wotherspoon, one of Taylor&Emmet’s childcare experts, said: “It is right that the public should know how the family courts work and the media can play a key role in achieving this. It would be better for individuals to have some idea of the processes before they become involved as active participants and it would be helpful for the public to understand why decisions are made in specific cases.”

The Ministry of Justice has recommended that the media, but not the public, should be allowed access to most family law cases, with the proviso that the judge or magistrate will be able to exclude members of the press where appropriate. It is hoped that by publishing more details than present restrictions allow, those involved will appear more accountable than at present.

Pat added: “It must be remembered that all court proceedings involving family matters are private and usually distressing. Children are especially vulnerable in the court process and need protection from inappropriate publicity.”

Taylor&Emmet boasts one of the largest family departments in South Yorkshire and it is one of the few firms still making a commitment to legal aid work. For more information about the firm’s family services, contact (0114) 218 4000 or visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk

Issued: 24.12.2008

> back to News & Events
> back to News archive