How Long Will the Process Take?

• The Court guidelines in relation to public law proceedings are that the case should conclude within 40 weeks of issue
• Frequently, cases take much longer than this and on occasions, conclude more quickly. This depends on the complexity of the case, number of people involved, available court time and level of agreement between the parties. Your solicitor is best placed to give you detailed advice in relation to this.
• Most cases will be listed at court as follow:
  • First appointment or interim care order application hearing - court will determine whether there is sufficient evidence for an interim order
  • Case management hearing - to timetable and establish what further information is required to progress the case
  • Issue Resolution Hearing- to consider that all outstanding matters are dealt with and that the case is ready for final hearing
  • Final hearing - where a final decision is made and the matter is concluded
• There may be additional hearings listed if issues arise that require determination by the court