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Durham County Court and Family Court

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

Family CourtCounty Court
Information from the court

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Address and contact details

Visiting address
(Postcode is for deliveries only - do not use for directions - please use google maps or sat nav) Durham Justice Centre Green Lane Old Elvet Durham DH1 3RG
Enforcement 0191 375 1840
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 (3)
Family public law (children in care) 0330 808 4424

Digital process for case numbers starting with C5

Social security and child support 0300 123 1142

DX: 65115 Durham 5

Email contacts
Breathing space enquiries durham.breathingspace@justice.gov.uk
Social security and child support sscsa-leeds@justice.gov.uk
Family public law (children in care) contactfpl@justice.gov.uk

Digital process for case numbers starting with C5

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 Durham County Court and Family Court

For an in-person hearing at Durham County Court and Family Court, start with the address and time on your hearing notice. Plan the journey to DH1 3RG 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

Counter service by appointment only

10am to 2pm (cashless office in operation)

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

Getting to Durham County Court and Family Court

Use the postcode DH1 3RG to plan your journey, then check the building name and entrance against your court letter.

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

Facilities and accessibility

Interview room

There are five interview rooms available at this court.

Disabled access

Disabled access and disabled toilet

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.

Video facilities

Video conference and Prison video link facilities.

Baby changing facility

Baby changing facilities are available.

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome.

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

AdoptionBankruptcyChildrenDivorceDomestic violenceHigh Court District RegistryHousing possessionMoney claimsSocial security

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

Prepare for your visit