Reforms to the family justice system that took effect on 22 April 2014 made changes to Appeals, in particular as a result of the introduction of the Family Court. Certain appeals from circuit judges and recorders lie to the High Court rather than the Court of Appeal from 3 October 2016 (unless they are second appeals which lie to the Court of Appeal). The key provisions are set out in the Family Procedure Rules 2010 (FPR 2010), SI 2010/2955 at FPR 2010, SI 2010/2955, Pt 30, and in the supporting PrACTice Directions FPR 2010, PD 30A and FPR 2010, PD 30B, together with the Access to Justice Act 1999 (Destination of Appeals) (Family Proceedings) Order 2014, SI 2014/602 (as amended).

With effect from 1 February 2021, provision is made by FPR 2010, PD 41C (Proceedings by Electronic Means: Appeals in Family Proceedings Heard in the High Court) for appeal proceedings in the Family Division of the High Court to proceed by electronic means using an online case management system in specified circumstances. See Practice Note: High Court (Family