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

✦ C-2026-001 · Community

Assumption: "I can just stop contact if I'm worried, without any consequences."

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 sometimes believe that stopping contact unilaterally is a safe, cost-free response to a concern, and that they can explain their reasons later if challenged.

Court Reality

If there's a court order in place, stopping contact without applying to vary it risks being a breach. Without an order, unilaterally stopping contact can be viewed as unreasonably obstructing the other parent's relationship with the child, unless the risk genuinely justifies it. If safety is at risk, the answer is to apply to vary the order, not to stop and explain later.

🙏

This insight was contributed by someone who has been through the family court system. Bridge The Gap is deeply grateful to everyone who shares their experience — your honesty helps bridge the gap for the next person still in it.

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.

✦ Community · C-2026-001

The Gap?

"I can just stop contact if I'm worried, without any consequences."

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

Published28 August 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.