IDVA’s (Independent Domestic Violence Advocates) are specialists in domestic abuse – we know how to assess risk of harm, we have in-depth knowledge of safeguarding and criminal/Civil matters and work in a trauma-informed way to ensure we keep you safe from emotional and physical harm.
Since 2023, IDVA’s have been given permission sit in court with people experiencing domestic abuse in Criminal and Family Court. We can do this whether you have legal representation or not and you don’t need to prove the domestic abuse- IDVA’s can assess that and confirm to the court that we believe you, and that is enough. We are different to McKenzie Friends, who are only allowed to support Litigants In Person.
Your ex cannot reasonably object to an IDVA being present and Judges are very supportive of IDVA’s being present in Court as we can be extremely helpful in supporting a client to progress the case. However, the reality is that most IDVA’s work for charitable organisations, and simply don’t have the capacity to support you at Court, even if your case is open to them.
That’s where I come in. You can book me purely for court support if needed, even if you are not my client. As long as I believe you to be experiencing domestic abuse, then I can support you in Court.
This service is available for court hearings in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Herts,Surrey, London. For courts outside of these locations, please contact me to discuss.
Why is IDVA support important?
Whether it’s your first time in the court arena or whether you have been there lots of times, it can be nerve-wracking to say the least. Having your trusted expert sit alongside you in the courtroom, completely focussed on you throughout the day, can help ensure you give your best evidence, remain calm and do the best job you can in these very difficult circumstances.
Here’s how I can help:
- Preparation – We will go through everything you can do practically and emotionally so you feel as prepared and supported as possible for your hearing.
- Safety & Support – I will help ensure you do not come into close contact with the other party and that you are not left alone during the court process.
- Understanding the Process – I can explain legal terminology in plain language and offer quiet guidance and prompts throughout the hearing so you do not miss important information.
- Comprehensive Note Taking – I will take detailed notes during hearings so you can stay present and focused. Copies can be kept for your records afterwards.
- Emotional Regulation Support – Real-time emotional support and grounding to help reduce overwhelm, calm your nervous system, and process difficult moments during proceedings.
- Child Arrangements Guidance – Support with understanding and wording proposed Child Arrangements Orders where appropriate.
- Strategic Support – A calm thinking partner to help you feel more confident and clear about decisions being made during the court day.
- Post-Hearing Debrief – Time afterwards to process the outcome, reflect on what happened, and understand next steps.
- Documentation Support – Optional add-on service for professionally typed verbatim hearing notes, usually provided within 48 hours.
- Full-Day Availability – Your court date is blocked out in my diary for the full day to allow for delays, extended hearings, or additional emotional support afterwards if needed.
Safeguarding IDVA support
As an IDVA I am also well placed to advocate for my clients in safeguarding meetings such as Section 7 interviews, Child Protection conferences, core group and CAFCASS meetings. Having me alongside you can ensure you feel safe to speak up and I can help you articulate your concerns in a way that ensures professionals have a better understanding of your situation.
Testimonials
Here’s what my client Claire had to say:
“Caron attended my last hearing at family court – not only did she help me prepare my statement but was there on the day. Caron offered a coffee in the morning, she met me outside court and gave me a stress ball/ keyring which I still use, lavender spray to calm my nerves and held my hand whilst I was triggered hearing my Ex and his barrister talking.
Caron was my support, helped me find my strength to face court and even helped me with my outfit choice. I was so grateful to have Caron by my side and she continues to be there whilst other issues arise about the order, terms and bail conditions. I honestly wouldn’t have got this far without having Caron to call – she will always answer and offer her support. Caron has helped me overcome so much and each day I’m thankful for her – her ongoing support and honesty helps with her understanding of the court and legal processes. Caron understands what I have gone through and is so easy to speak with. “
“Caron has attended Family Court with me a few times now for hearings. She is a rock – her presence is truly calming, and she has helped me feel stronger when having to speak to the Judge in the presence of my abusive ex. She is full of good tips about how to deal with questions at court and composing myself. She is an excellent note taker – it’s very easy to get caught up in emotions at court and forget it note incorrectly what the judge said -her notes have been instrumental in asking the Judge to review orders where they have been disputed or incorrect. I would thoroughly recommend having her by your side at court.” – Halima 2025
