Family Court Support for Litigants in Person
You do not need a solicitor to have proper support. Here is what is available to you.
Thousands of people represent themselves in UK family court every year — without a solicitor, and often without any support at all. Bridge The Gap exists to change that. Whether you need someone in court with you, help understanding the process, or practical assistance with documents — we connect you with verified McKenzie Friends and provide the resources to help you navigate with confidence.
The Gaps
Family court is full of things nobody warns you about.
We call them Gaps — the difference between what people believe about family court and what actually happens. Reading them before your hearing could change everything.
Going to court without a solicitor
Being a litigant in person (LiP) is fully permitted in UK family courts. You have the same rights as a represented party — including the right to call witnesses, submit evidence, and be assisted by a McKenzie Friend. The court cannot give you legal advice, but it is required to ensure proceedings are fair.
What in-court support looks like
A McKenzie Friend sits beside you during your hearing. They take notes, quietly advise you, help you find documents, and provide moral support. They cannot speak for you unless the judge specifically grants permission — but their presence makes an enormous difference to how calm and organised you feel on the day.
Support before the hearing
Much of a McKenzie Friend's value comes outside the courtroom — helping you understand your orders and directions, prepare your position statement, compile your court bundle, and organise your evidence. Good preparation is the single biggest factor you can control.
Did you know?
Most people go into family court believing things that simply aren't true.
The Gaps are short, honest explanations of the most common family court misconceptions — written in plain English, not legal jargon. Each one covers what people believe, why that belief exists, and what the court reality actually is.
How Bridge The Gap Can Help
Verified McKenzie Friends
Browse our directory of verified court support professionals — reviewed through our Verified Support Initiative.
Find SupportBridge The Gaps
Plain-English analyses of the most common family court misconceptions — so you know what to actually expect.
Explore the GapsResources & Guides
Access guides to court forms, procedures, and resources to help you prepare and present your case effectively.
View ResourcesFrequently Asked Questions
Your experience matters
Have you been through family court? You know something others don't.
The Gaps are built from real litigant experiences. If you discovered something in your case that nobody warned you about — something that changed how you understood the process — your contribution could help someone else avoid the same shock.