Ministers have announced the creation of a new body to advise on ways to improve the family justice system.

Lord Filkin, minister in the Department for Constitutional Affairs, said the move would help to spread best practice around the legal system.

The new committee will be comprised of "highly respected" leaders in the field of family justice, and will meet once every three months.

"The family justice system plays a crucial role in protecting vulnerable people at stressful times," said Lord Filkin.

"These people might be abuse victims or they might be experiencing a traumatic family breakdown.

"Many children and families come into contact with the family justice system each year. This new council will play a crucial role in improving the way their cases are handled.

"Members will use their wealth of personal and professional experience to look at the family justice system and identify how it can be improved for the benefit of those who come into contact with it."

It is hoped that the new council will improve communication between the different agencies involved in family justice policy, ensuring a more joined up approach that would benefit children and families.

Dame Elizabeth Butler-Sloss, who will be chairman of the Family Justice Council, said much good work was already going on.

"This new council will ensure expertise and good work is more focused by avoiding duplication and building on best practice," she said.

"Family cases are perhaps the most difficult for courts. Such personal problems are often very complex and involve painful decisions for all involved.

"With its aim of improving outcomes for children and families, this new council should help some of the most vulnerable members of society in troubled times."