Quick summary

The Equal Treatment Bench Book is official judicial guidance for courts and tribunals in England and Wales. It helps judges run fair hearings, communicate clearly, and make reasonable adjustments so people can participate on an equal footing. It is guidance, not statute. In practice it is highly persuasive and commonly followed.

What the Bench Book is

The Bench Book is a practical handbook used by the judiciary. It covers equal treatment, communication, trauma informed practice, cultural competency, disability, neurodiversity, language, and vulnerability. It explains principles and gives concrete steps for fair participation.

Who it is for and how judges use it

Judges, tribunal members, and court staff use the Bench Book during case management and hearings. It is referenced when deciding how long a hearing should be, how questions are put, and what adjustments are needed so parties can participate properly. Advocates also rely on it to suggest fair procedures.

Disability, autism, and communication

The Bench Book includes detailed material on disability and neurodiversity. It recognises that some people process information differently, may need extra time, and may communicate in ways that are direct or atypical. The focus is participation and fairness, not presentation style.

• Judges should avoid complex or rapid questioning.
• Breaks can be used to manage overload or fatigue.
• Written directions should be clear and unambiguous.
• People should not be penalised for communication differences if the substance is clear.

Common reasonable adjustments

Examples that courts often consider sensible and proportionate:

• Extra time to read, process, and respond.
• Shorter sessions with planned breaks.
• Plain English directions and orders.
• Allowing written questions or submissions in place of rapid verbal exchange where appropriate.
• Remote attendance if travel or sensory load is a barrier.
• Scheduling hearings at times that reduce fatigue or flare ups.

How to ask for adjustments

Ask early, in writing, and link the request to your specific needs. Keep it factual and solution focused. You do not need to disclose your full medical history. Provide only what is necessary to explain the barrier and the fix.

Template paragraph you can adapt

Evidence

A brief clinician letter, diagnostic report, or support worker statement is usually enough. If you do not have paperwork to hand, say so and ask for interim adjustments while you obtain it.

How to cite the Bench Book in submissions

You can cite the Bench Book as persuasive judicial guidance. Keep the citation simple. Mention the chapter or section if you know it. Tie the citation to a concrete request.

Tips for litigants in person

• State your needs early, then repeat them succinctly at each key stage.
• Structure beats flourish. Use headings, short paragraphs, and numbered lists.
• If you struggle during a hearing, say so and ask for a short break. That is exactly what adjustments are for.
• Keep a paper trail. Confirm any agreed adjustments by email or a short note to the court.

Short FAQ

Is the Bench Book legally binding
No. It is authoritative guidance that courts commonly follow because it supports fair process.

Do I need a diagnosis to ask for adjustments
No. A diagnosis helps, but the key test is whether an adjustment is reasonable and needed for effective participation.

Can I refer to it if the other side objects
Yes. The Bench Book guides the court, not the parties. You are helping the court run a fair hearing.

Disclaimer

This article is not intended as legal advice. It is a plain English summary based on publicly available guidance and what we have learned through our own research and experience. For legal advice about your specific case, you should consult a qualified solicitor or barrister.

References and further reading

• Judicial College – Equal Treatment Bench Book
• Equal Treatment Bench Book – July 2024, May 2025 update (PDF)
• Equality Act 2010 – Contents
• Equality Act 2010 – Full text PDF
• GOV.UK – Equality Act guidance
• GOV.UK – Reasonable adjustments for disabled workers
• EHRC – Examples of reasonable adjustments in practice
• Citizens Advice – Asking for reasonable adjustments if you are disabled
• Citizens Advice – Going to court without a solicitor or barrister