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) · 359

Assumption: "(Filing & Emailing the Court) I can hand my position statement in on the morning of the hearing."

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 think of it as something they bring with them.

Court Reality

The Financial Remedies Guide (paras 89 to 92) says position statements are filed by 11:00 on the working day before and exchanged within one hour of that deadline, as a PDF in at least 12-point font with 1.5 line spacing. The Bundles Guide for Litigants in Person (para 7.10) says documents in a bundle should usually be 12-point with double spacing. The two guides do not match on spacing. Some orders set different times. Rules and orders differ here: check your own order.

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The Gap?

"(Filing & Emailing the Court) I can hand my position statement in on the morning of the hearing."

Court Reality

5 line spacing. 10) says documents in a bundle should usually be 12-point with double spacing. The two guides do not match on spacing. Some orders set different times. Rules and orders differ here: check your own order.

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Published23 September 2026Last reviewed8 October 2026

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