Advocacy at Preliminary and Directions Hearings: How I Represent Clients Across Family, Employment and Civil Law

By Kuldeep S. Clair – Senior Solicitor & Advocate, KSC Legal and Sterling Lawyers Ltd

For many people, the thought of speaking in front of a judge is daunting. Some clients are nervous, others are overwhelmed, and many are simply unsure what to expect. Early-stage hearings — including preliminary hearings, directions hearings and case management hearings — can feel intimidating, even though they can be short, procedural and focused on planning the next steps in a case.

With more than 25 years’ advocacy experience across family, employment, commercial and general civil litigation, I regularly represent clients at both remote and in-person hearings. I was trained in my early career by a solicitor who later became a District Judge, and that grounding has shaped the way I prepare, present and protect my clients’ cases.

This article explains what happens at these early hearings, why professional representation can make a significant difference, and how I support clients throughout the process.

1. What is a preliminary hearing?

A preliminary hearing is an early stage in a legal case where the court or tribunal:

1. identifies the issues in dispute
2. sets a timetable for the case
3. decides what evidence will be needed
4. gives directions to both parties
5. ensures the matter is ready for a final hearing

These hearings typically last between 30 minutes and two hours. They can take place:

• remotely (via telephone or video)
• or in person at court or tribunal

They are not usually about deciding the final outcome — they are about managing the case properly.

2. What is a directions hearing?

A directions hearing is a specific type of preliminary hearing where the court sets out the steps each party must take before the case can progress. It focuses on practical matters such as:

1. identifying the issues that need evidence
2. deciding what documents must be disclosed
3. setting deadlines for witness statements
4. arranging expert reports (if required)
5. fixing a timetable leading up to the final hearing

Like other preliminary hearings, directions hearings are usually short, procedural and designed to ensure the case progresses efficiently. Clients are often relieved to learn that I handle all the speaking on their behalf, and it is rarely necessary for them to give evidence or answer questions.

3. Do clients need to speak at these hearings?

In most cases, no.

Clients are often reassured to learn that:

1. I do all the speaking on their behalf
2. They rarely need to give evidence
3. They are not cross-examined
4. They do not need to prepare witness statements for these hearings
5. They can simply attend, listen and feel supported

My role is to present the case clearly, respond to the judge’s questions, and ensure the directions given are fair and workable for my client.

4. Which areas of law do I cover?

I regularly act as an advocate in:

1. Family law – including financial disputes, child arrangements and TOLATA-related directions
2. Employment law – including case management hearings, preliminary issues and strike-out applications
3. Commercial and business disputes
4. General civil litigation – including money claims, consumer disputes and breach of contract matters
5. Property and co-ownership disputes

This breadth of experience allows me to deal with a wide range of hearings efficiently and confidently.

5. Why professional advocacy matters

Early-stage hearings may appear straightforward, but they often involve important decisions that shape the entire case. Effective advocacy can:

1. narrow the issues and reduce unnecessary disputes
2. ensure deadlines are realistic and fair
3. prevent the other side from gaining procedural advantage
4. avoid orders that place undue burden on you
5. set the case on the right track from the outset

Clients frequently tell me that having someone speak for them removes a huge amount of stress and uncertainty.

6. How I support clients before and during the hearing

My approach is designed to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible:

1. I review all documents and identify the key issues
2. I explain what will happen at the hearing in clear, practical terms
3. I prepare a concise summary of your position
4. I attend the hearing and speak on your behalf
5. I update you immediately afterwards and explain the next steps in ordinary language.

You remain fully informed, but you do not have to deal with the pressure of addressing the judge yourself.

7. Do I act at final hearings as well?

Yes. Although this article focuses on preliminary and directions hearings, I also represent clients at:

• final hearings
• disposal hearings
• small claims and fast-track trials
• applications and interim hearings

Some clients instruct me for the entire case; others ask me to step in specifically for hearings where they want experienced representation.

8. Why my advocacy background is a genuine USP

Many solicitors do not conduct their own advocacy. Others only appear in one area of law. My background is different.

With over 25 years’ experience, including training from a solicitor who later became a District Judge, I bring:

1. confidence and clarity in court
2. experience across multiple legal disciplines
3. the ability to anticipate procedural issues
4. strong negotiation skills
5. a calm, reassuring presence for clients

This combination is rare — and it is often the reason clients choose to instruct me rather than face a hearing alone or rely on someone less experienced.

9. What will it cost to instruct me for a hearing?

Many clients worry about the cost of legal representation, especially when a hearing is approaching. Although it is not possible to give a fixed fee on a website without knowing the details of the case, I can usually provide a clear, fixed quotation once I have a little information. The cost will depend on:

1. the length of the hearing
2. whether it is remote or in person
3. the amount of documentation that needs to be reviewed
4. the complexity of the issues

I am always happy to agree a fixed fee in advance so that you know exactly where you stand. 

One thing I can guarantee is that my fee will be considerably lower than that of a barrister with even half the level of experience I have. Clients often find this reassuring, especially when they want senior-level advocacy without the expense of instructing counsel.

Final thoughts

Preliminary and directions hearings may be short, but they can have a significant impact on the direction of your case. Having an experienced advocate speak on your behalf can reduce stress, protect your position and ensure the matter is managed properly from the outset.

If you have an upcoming hearing — whether in family, employment, commercial or civil law — I can represent you and guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.

Need representation?

If you would like senior-level advocacy for a preliminary or directions hearing, feel free to get in touch. You will deal directly with me, and I will handle the hearing from start to finish.

Kuldeep S. Clair    Senior Solicitor & Advocate