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Sunderland County, Family, Magistrates’ and Tribunal Hearings

Address, contact details and practical information for Sunderland County, Family, Magistrates’ and Tribunal Hearings in Sunderland.

Magistrates' CourtCounty Court
Information from the court

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Address and contact details

Visiting address
Gillbridge Avenue Sunderland SR1 3AP
Witness service 0300 332 1352
Enquiries 0330 808 4407

Magistrates’ Court Enquiries: Courts and Tribunals Service Centre. Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm and Saturday 8am – 2pm

Single Justice Service 0300 303 0656

Single Justice Service Centre - If your query relates to a Singles Justice Procedure Case – Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5pm

More telephone contacts (5)
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

Social security and child support 0300 123 1142

DX: 65149 Sunderland 2 · County Court

Email contacts
Enquiries SJS@justice.gov.uk

Single Justice Service Centre if your query relates to a Single Justice Procedure Case

Enquiries contactcrime@justice.gov.uk

Magistrates’ Court Enquiries: Courts and Tribunals Service Centre

Listing NO-Listings@Justice.gov.uk

Magistrates' Listings

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 Sunderland County, Family, Magistrates’ and Tribunal Hearings

For an in-person hearing at Sunderland County, Family, Magistrates’ and Tribunal Hearings, start with the address and time on your hearing notice. Plan the journey to SR1 3AP and allow extra time for the security checks at the entrance.

Magistrates’ courts often list several matters in a session. After security, ask the usher where to wait and tell your representative that you have arrived. Stay close enough to hear when your case is called, and ask before leaving the waiting area.

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 hearing loop, disabled access 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

8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday

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 Sunderland County, Family, Magistrates’ and Tribunal Hearings

Use the postcode SR1 3AP 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

There is public pay and display parking available at a number of sites close to the court.

Facilities and accessibility

Hearing Loop

All court rooms are fitted with infra red hearing loop systems as are the counters and private interview rooms.

Parking

There is public pay and display parking available at a number of sites close to the court.

Assistance dogs

Guide dogs are welcome at this court.

Video facilities

Video Conference and Prison Video Link facilities

Interview room

This court has private interview room facilities.

Disabled access

This building has a ramp to the building entrance, a lift between the ground floor and the first floor, and level access in to court rooms and hearing rooms.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network

Lanyards available on request.

Witness service

www.witnessservice.org.uk

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

AdoptionBankruptcyChildrenCrimeDivorceDomestic violenceHigh Court District RegistryHousing possessionMoney claimsSingle justice procedureSocial security

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

Prepare for your visit