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Bedford County Court and Family Court

Address, contact details and practical information for Bedford County Court and Family Court in Bedford.

Family CourtCounty Court
Information from the court

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Address and contact details

Visiting address
Shire Hall 3 St Paul's Square Bedford MK40 1SQ
Counter appointments 01582 506722

from 9am to 5pm

Enquiries 0300 123 5577

National Contact Centre for Civil & Family Court - Monday to Friday 8:30am -5pm

Enquiries 0300 303 0642

Divorce Contact Centre - Monday to Friday 10am - 6pm

More telephone contacts (1)
Social security and child support 0300 123 1142

DX: 97760 Luton 4

Email contacts
Other addresses listed by this court
Visit us
Shire Hall 3 St Paul's Square Bedford MK40 1SQ
Write to us
Bedford County Court and Family Court Luton Justice Centre Floors 4 & 5, Arndale House Luton Point Luton LU1 2EN
Write to us
HMCTS Benefit Appeals PO Box 12626 Harlow CM20 9QF

Location map

Check the entrance and address against your appointment or hearing notice. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

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What to expect at Bedford County Court and Family Court

For an in-person hearing at Bedford County Court and Family Court, start with the address and time on your hearing notice. Plan the journey to MK40 1SQ and allow extra time for the security checks at the entrance.

Family hearings can involve sensitive personal information. The judge decides who may attend, and different rules can apply to different hearings. Check arrangements for a supporter, children or a separate waiting area with the court in advance.

Before you leave home

Bring your hearing notice, case reference and the documents you have been asked to provide. Keep important papers organised so you can find them during the hearing. Check the court’s security rules before packing food, drinks or other items, and put your phone on silent before entering a hearing room.

The court lists disabled access, hearing loop, baby changing facility among its facilities. The descriptions below explain what is available. If you need an adjustment, contact the court beforehand so staff can discuss the arrangements for your visit.

When you arrive

Follow the signs to security, then find reception or an usher. Give your case reference if asked and check the courtroom or waiting area. If you do not understand a practical instruction, ask staff to explain it. Tell the usher if you need a break, assistance or cannot hear what is being said.

Can someone come with me?

Check before bringing a supporter or child. Public access and permission for supporters depend on the type of hearing and any order made by the judge. A person accompanying you is not automatically allowed to speak for you.

What if I am late or cannot attend?

Contact the court using the number for your type of case and tell your legal representative as soon as possible. Explain the problem and follow the court’s instructions. Do not assume that sending a message changes the hearing date.

Is my hearing definitely in this building?

Use the venue on your current hearing notice. Buildings can handle different types of work, and a listing on this directory does not confirm where an individual case will be heard. Telephone and video hearings have separate joining instructions.

General preparation guidance; the court’s instructions for your hearing take priority. Read the attending-court guide and official sources.

Opening times

Court open

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm

Counter open

10am to 2pm (by prior appointment only).

Building and counter opening times may differ from your hearing time. Follow the time and venue on your hearing notice.

Getting to Bedford County Court and Family Court

Use the postcode MK40 1SQ to plan your journey, then check the building name and entrance against your court letter.

Public transport Driving Walking

Directions open in Google Maps. Check live services, parking charges and accessibility with the transport operator. Allow time for court security.

Facilities and accessibility

Disabled access

There is a ramp with a slight incline to the building entrance. The building has lifts to all floors and level access into courtrooms.

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome

Hearing Loop

The building has a portable hearing enhancement system available by prior arrangement. Please contact the court by telephone or email to let us know of your requirements.

Interview room

This court has interview room facilities.

Baby changing facility

Baby changing facilities are available.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network

Lanyards available on request.

Contact the court before your visit if you need an adjustment, interpretation or other support. A listed facility does not confirm it is available for your particular hearing.

Areas of law handled

BankruptcyChildrenDivorceDomestic violenceHigh Court District RegistryHousing possessionMoney claimsSocial security

Use your hearing notice to confirm which court is dealing with your case.

Prepare for your visit

Attending court

What to check before leaving and what to do when you arrive.

Read the guide

Security at court

Check the current rules on bags, belongings and security screening.

Read the guide