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.

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UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person

Gap 276

Assumption: "A fact-finding hearing decides the final arrangements for my child."

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 often assume that once the fact-finding hearing is over and findings are made, the court will go on to decide contact or living arrangements at the same hearing.

Court Reality

A fact-finding hearing decides only specific factual allegations — whether certain events happened or not. It does not decide the final child arrangements. After findings are made, the case continues to a welfare stage where the court applies the welfare checklist (section 1(3) Children Act 1989) to decide what arrangements are in the child's best interests. Winning or losing individual findings is not the same as winning or losing the overall case. (Re C [2026] EWFC 74 (B))

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The Gap?

"A fact-finding hearing decides the final arrangements for my child."

Court Reality

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Published31 August 2026Last reviewed31 August 2026

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