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

Family Court Reality (the gap) · 335

Assumption: "(Filing & Emailing the Court) The HMCTS email guidance tells me how to send documents in my financial case."

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

People read the HMCTS email guidance and PD 5B and assume emailing documents is the route for every family case.

Court Reality

The Financial Remedies Guide (para 18) says litigants in person have no access to the online portal. They must email the court for correspondence and post documents to the bulk scanning centre: HMCTS Financial Remedy, PO Box 12746, Harlow, CM20 9QZ. The Bundles Guide for Litigants in Person (para 9.3) confirms that litigants in person send documents via the HMCTS bulk scanning department at that address. The HMCTS guidance and PD 5B describe filing by email, but financial remedy orders usually say post to Harlow. Rules and orders differ here: check your own order.

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The Gap?

"(Filing & Emailing the Court) The HMCTS email guidance tells me how to send documents in my financial case."

Court Reality

The Financial Remedies Guide (para 18) says litigants in person have no access to the online portal.

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Published23 September 2026Last reviewed8 October 2026

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