UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person
Gap 423

Assumption: "(Budgets) If I ask for a big budget, I'll get more."

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 an inflated needs budget gives them room to negotiate and will push the award up.

Court Reality

The court decides what is reasonable. An inflated budget gets cut back, and it can damage your credibility on everything else you say. A realistic budget you can explain line by line is more persuasive.

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Bridge The Gap

The Gap?

"(Budgets) If I ask for a big budget, I'll get more."

Court Reality

The court decides what is reasonable. An inflated budget gets cut back, and it can damage your credibility on everything else you say. A realistic budget you can explain line by line is more persuasive.

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Published24 September 2026Last reviewed24 September 2026

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