Family Court Insights for Litigants in Person
Practical, plain-English articles to help you navigate the UK family court system with confidence. Whether you are dealing with child arrangements, financial remedy, non-molestation orders, or looking for a McKenzie Friend — our blog breaks down the reality of family court in language you can actually understand.
Every article is written from the perspective of people who have been through the system — litigants in person and McKenzie Friends who understand the gaps between what you assume and what actually happens. We do not give legal advice. We share observational insights so you can walk into court informed, prepared, and in control.
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Family Court — Common Questions
The questions litigants in person ask most, answered in plain English.
What is a litigant in person in UK family court?
A litigant in person is someone who represents themselves in family court proceedings without a solicitor. They are fully responsible for preparing their case, filing court forms, serving documents on the other party, and presenting their evidence at hearings. Bridge The Gap provides observational insights and plain-English guidance to help litigants in person understand the process.
How can a McKenzie Friend help in family court?
A McKenzie Friend is a lay supporter who can sit beside you in court, take notes, help organise your evidence, and provide moral support and procedural guidance. They cannot give legal advice or conduct litigation on your behalf. Our McKenzie Friend directory connects litigants with vetted support professionals across the UK.
What forms do I need for family court?
The forms you need depend on your case type. Financial remedy cases start with Form A and require Form E for disclosure. Child arrangements cases use the C100 application and C7 response. Non-molestation and occupation orders use FL401. Our Your Journey feature maps every form to the correct stage of each case type.
Do I need a MIAM before going to family court?
Most family court applications require you to attend a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) first. You may be exempt if there is domestic abuse, urgency, or other qualifying factors. The mediator signs Form FM1 to confirm you attended or are exempt.
What is the difference between a non-molestation order and an occupation order?
A non-molestation order prevents someone from harassing, threatening, or being violent towards you. An occupation order regulates who can live in the family home. Both are applied for using Form FL401 under the Family Law Act 1996.
Knowledge is Power
You are fully responsible for your own case. Never hand your life over to anyone without a full understanding of what is happening and why — Bridge The Gap exists so you always know enough to stay in control.