Who will be in court

Judge or County Registrar

• They run the hearing and make decisions about the case

Court registrar

• Helps with the running of the hearing, swears in witnesses, and manages documents

Solicitors and barristers

• Legal professionals who may represent you or the other person

Applicant and respondent

• The people involved in the case

Witnesses

• People giving evidence

Interpreter or McKenzie friend

• Interpreters help if you don’t speak English or Irish
• A McKenzie friend (civil cases only) may sit beside you and provide quiet support if you are representing yourself

Public and media

• Civil hearings are usually open to the public and press
• Family hearings are private — only people directly involved can attend