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Ipswich County Court and Family Hearing Centre

Address, contact details and practical information for Ipswich County Court and Family Hearing Centre in Ipswich.

County Court
Information from the court

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Address and contact details

Visiting address
8 Arcade Street Ipswich IP1 1EJ
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

Family public law (children in care) 0330 808 4424

Digital process for case numbers starting with C5

DX: 97385 Norwich 5 -Civil · Civil

DX: 97660 Chelmsford -Family · Family

Email contacts
Family public law (children in care) contactfpl@justice.gov.uk

Digital process for case numbers starting with C5

Other addresses listed by this court
Visit us
8 Arcade Street Ipswich IP1 1EJ
Write to us
Chelmsford County Court Priory Place New London Road Chelmsford CM2 0PP
Write to us
Norwich Combined Court The Law Courts Bishopgate Norwich NR3 1UR

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 Ipswich County Court and Family Hearing Centre

For an in-person hearing at Ipswich County Court and Family Hearing Centre, start with the address and time on your hearing notice. Plan the journey to IP1 1EJ and allow extra time for the security checks at the entrance.

The hearing notice and any directions explain what your hearing is for and how to attend. A court or tribunal may deal with several matters during a session. Check in on arrival and ask staff where to wait; they can explain the building’s arrangements but cannot advise you on your case.

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, lift 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, 8.30 am to 4pm

Counter service by appointment only

for urgent Civil and Family matters

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

Getting to Ipswich County Court and Family Hearing Centre

Use the postcode IP1 1EJ 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.

Parking

The court has limited disabled parking and will need to be booked in advance.

Facilities and accessibility

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network

Lanyards available on request.

Parking

The court has limited disabled parking and will need to be booked in advance.

Disabled access

Disabled access and disabled toilet

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome.

Hearing Loop

This building has hearing enhancement facilities which are available by prior arrangement. Please contact the court office by telephone or e-mail if necessary. Please be aware that these facilities may not be compatible with all hearing devices.

Refreshments

Vending machine is available on the 2nd floor.

Interview room

Ten interview rooms are available at this court.

Baby changing facility

Baby changing facilities are available in the disabled toilets on the first floor

Video facilities

Court/hearing room video conferencing facilities and prison to court video link facilities are available (by prior arrangement).

Wireless network connection

Access to GovWiFi available.

Lift

Please note: The building elevator is now back in working order

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

AdoptionChildrenDivorceHigh Court District RegistryHousing possessionMoney claims

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

Prepare for your visit