Open Courts?

After a campaign by the media and others, today saw the implementation of new rules to open family courts to the media in England & Wales. Accredited journalists can attend divorce and children cases unless they have been specifically excluded. In this post John Bolch of Family Lore asks what is the purpose of the reforms and will it make a difference? John has also provided useful links to a press release from the solicitors organisation, Resolution, the new Rules, Practice Directions and the President's Guidance.

"The historic opening up of the courts was taken by Jack Straw, the Justice Secretary, after sustained pressure from families affected by the courts’ decisions and the media, led by The Times." says Frances Gibb, legal editor of The Times in an article for tomorrow's edition.