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Russell-Cooke helps launch family court support website

Sarah Richardson, Partner in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Sarah Richardson
2 min Read

Developed with family lawyers and a family Judge, the site offers free resources for West London families.

A new website designed to provide free, clear, accessible, and practical information for families involved in the Family Justice System across West London has officially launched today.

The West London Family Court Information website was created by a group of family lawyers based in West London, including Russell-Cooke family partner Sarah Richardson, with the support of the Former Designated Family Judge for the area, Her Honour Judge Rowe KC.

This comprehensive online resource offers vital guidance for those facing family breakdowns and seeking assistance through the Family Justice System in Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Enfield, Haringey, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Kingston and Richmond and Merton. Visitors to the site will find detailed explanations of the court process, information on who they can turn to for support, and even video tours showing what family courtrooms look like. 

Families going through the court process often find it confusing and daunting. We wanted to create something that makes information accessible, practical and supportive for everyone, regardless of background. By working together with judges, local authorities and mediation services, we’ve been able to build a resource that will help people feel better prepared and less anxious about what lies ahead.
Sarah Richardson, Partner in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Sarah Richardson • Partner
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It seemed to me that there was a lack of accessible information available when people are having to go to a family court. I understand that going to court can be a very frightening experience, and we wanted to create a website that would ease people’s fears and help them feel more informed. This site gives clear guidance on what to expect and should help reduce any anxiety or uncertainty.
Judge Judith Rowe KC • West London Family Court

With current court waiting times at record highs, the website also highlights alternatives to litigation—such as mediation and arbitration—and lists local charities and services offering additional support.

The idea for the site was first developed in the Bristol court area. Recognising its success, Judge Rowe collaborated with a team of West London solicitors and a local mediation service to adapt and launch a version tailored specifically for families in the West London region.

This new digital tool represents a significant step forward in improving access to justice and ensuring that families feel supported throughout what can be an overwhelming and emotional process.

Background

The information on the site was put together by Judge Judith Rowe and solicitors Aarti Hansrani from Harrow Council, Pameel Crowther-Newman from Brent council, Sarah Richardson from Russell-Cooke and Alison Morgan from MiD Mediation and Counselling. Michael Waugaman kindly created and developed the website.  

Financial support to help create the site came from the following solicitor’s firms: Harris Temperley, AL Law & Associates, S. Little, JM Day, Creighton Partners, 1GC Management.

About Sarah

Sarah Richardson leads a team of solicitors specialising in all areas of children law including complicated care proceedings, adoption, family creation and relocation both local and international.

Get in touch

If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our family and children solicitors by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7520 or complete our enquiry form.

News Family and children family court support family court family court system West London new website Barnet Brent Ealing Enfield Haringey Harrow Hillingdon Hounslow Kingston Richmond Merton