The aims of the Family Justice System
Families are at the centre of the Family Justice System. The system aims to serve all families by providing ways to resolve family disputes and to protect family members. The key principles of the system are:
Children's welfare is of paramount importance
Safeguarding children's welfare is a key consideration for all professionals working in the Family Justice System. In all cases relating to children, the role of the court is to make decisions in the best interests of children based on the evidence before it and the law. The child's welfare is the court's paramount consideration in all cases about the care and upbringing of children. The child's safety and security are always important.
Justice and fairness
In all cases the courts seek to provide justice for the individuals who are in dispute and to produce a solution which is fair.
Respect for human rights
Organisations which make up the Family Justice System are all committed to treating people with respect. In the decisions they take and the procedures they use, public authorities are bound to comply with the Human Rights Act 1998.