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 Family Court Reality (the gap)

UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person

Family Court Reality (the gap) · 427

Assumption: "(Court orders) My circumstances changed, so I can work around the order."

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 a genuine change, like a new job or a new routine, lets them make different arrangements on days the order covers without going back to court.

Court Reality

The order still applies until the court changes it. Making other plans on a day the order says contact must happen can be a breach, even with a good reason. Saying you didn't know how to change an order is unlikely to help, and you could be left paying costs your decision caused. If the order no longer works, apply to vary it.

Share this insight

Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.

The Gap?

"(Court orders) My circumstances changed, so I can work around the order."

Court Reality

The order still applies until the court changes it. Making other plans on a day the order says contact must happen can be a breach, even with a good reason.

Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.

familycourtbridge.org

← Browse over 500 Family Court Reality (the gap) insights

Published26 September 2026Last reviewed8 October 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, such as remembering this choice and keeping you signed in if you create an account. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.