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 All gaps

UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person

Gap 159

Assumption: "I have genuine safeguarding concerns but if I pause contact I will get into trouble with the judge for breaking the court order."

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

Parents believe that pausing contact — even when a child is at risk — will automatically be treated as contempt or bad faith by the court.

Court Reality

Courts take a serious view of withholding contact without good reason — but genuine, documented safeguarding concerns are a recognised basis for pausing. If Social Services have advised a pause pending assessment, that advice carries significant weight. Judges distinguish between a parent acting on professional guidance and one acting out of conflict. Document everything and be ready to show your reasoning.

Share this gap

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?

"I have genuine safeguarding concerns but if I pause contact I will get into trouble with the judge for breaking the court order."

Court Reality

Experienced a gap between what you thought you knew about family court and the reality? Share your own and get credited.

familycourtbridge.org

← Browse all 469 gaps

Published23 June 2026Last reviewed31 August 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 to provide you with the best experience on our website. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.