What is a McKenzie Friend?

A McKenzie Friend is a person who supports a litigant in person in court by taking notes, helping with paperwork and offering practical and moral support. They are not a solicitor and do not provide legal representation unless the court grants additional rights.

Can I go to family court without a solicitor?

Yes. Many people represent themselves in UK family court as litigants in person. Bridge The Gap shares community observations and resources to help you understand the process. It does not provide legal advice.

What is Bridge The Gap?

Bridge The Gap is a community-built platform by litigants and McKenzie Friends that highlights the gaps between what people assume about family court and what actually happens.

Back to feed Family Court Reality (the gap)

UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person

Family Court Reality (the gap) · 157

Assumption: "Having lawyers involved just makes family court cases more adversarial and drags things out."

1 min read

This content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.

What People Expect

Litigants believe legal representation increases conflict and delays resolution.

Court Reality

Data shows the opposite. Cases where both parties are represented have a significantly higher rate of settlement. Unrepresented cases are most likely to go all the way to a final hearing. 38% of private law children cases have no representation on either side. The problem wasn't lawyers. It was removing the funding that paid for them.

Share this insight

Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.

The Gap?

"Having lawyers involved just makes family court cases more adversarial and drags things out."

Court Reality

Data shows the opposite. Cases where both parties are represented have a significantly higher rate of settlement. Unrepresented cases are most likely to go all the way to a final hearing.

Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.

familycourtbridge.org

← Browse over 500 Family Court Reality (the gap) insights

Published22 June 2026Last reviewed8 October 2026

Navigating court alone?

A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.

Find your support

Cookie Consent

We use essential cookies only, such as remembering this choice and keeping you signed in if you create an account. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.