Family Court Confidential

Posted: 05 August 2025

What You Can (and Can’t) Share Outside the Courtroom

Why Confidentiality Matters

In family court proceedings, the sharing of information outside the courtroom is strictly regulated. This is to protect the privacy of those involved, particularly when children are involved. As a general rule, you are not allowed to share any documents from the case or tell people what is in them. This includes court file documents, witness statements, discussions in court or a Judgment. The law permits the disclosure of information only under specific circumstances. This blog explores the rules and exceptions surrounding sharing information in family proceedings.

The Importance of Confidentiality

Family Proceedings often involve sensitive and confidential information, including personal details about the parties and their lives. To protect the privacy of those involved, discussions in court are generally kept confidential. This confidentiality ensures that the family court can make decisions free from external influence and protect individuals’ personal data from public access.

Who Can Share Information?

Information shared in family proceedings is typically limited to those directly involved in the case. Such as legal representatives, experts, or social workers who are appointed to assist the court. Additionally, other professionals, such as mediators or counsellors, may also be given access to the information if their involvement is deemed necessary to help assist the case.

Exceptions: When Sharing Is Allowed

There are specific cases where sharing information is permitted or necessary:

Family court confidentiality: – Child Protection: If a child’s safety is at risk, information can be shared with relevant authorities (e.g., social services).

Unauthorised disclosure family court: – Police Investigations: Information may be disclosed to police officers if it’s relevant to a criminal investigation.

Family court confidentiality: – Legal Advice: You’re entitled to share information privately with your solicitor or legal adviser.

Unauthorised disclosure family court: Check Always check with your solicitor before sharing documents or details to avoid legal missteps.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

Sharing information outside of court without proper authorisation can have serious consequences. Unauthorised disclosure of confidential details is a criminal offence and can lead to penalties, including fines or imprisonment. This highlights the importance of understanding the rules before sharing any information related to family proceedings.

When in Doubt – Ask First

While there are certain instances where sharing information is required, it is essential for those involved in family proceedings to understand the strict confidentiality guidelines. By following these rules and seeking legal advice, all parties can help safeguard privacy and prioritise the best interests of children throughout the process.  It is best to take legal advice before sharing information or documents about Court Procedures to ensure that you are not in breach of the law.

Need Legal Advice About Family Law?

If you require Family Law advice, please contact our expert Family Law Team in our Chelmsford Office 01245 493959 or Braintree Office  01376 556690 or send an email.

 Author: Laura Collins (assisted by Jemma Stone)

Laura Collins, Partner at Taylor Haldane Barlex LLP and Head of the Children Law Team.  Laura specialises in children law, representing parents, children, grandparents, and foster carers in a wide range of public and private law matters.  Known for her compassionate yet robust advocacy, she delivers clear, client-centered advice in some of the most sensitive and high-stakes family law situations.