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) · 456

Assumption: "Attending a domestic abuse programme or course proves I've changed."

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

Parents often believe that completing a court-ordered programme or course is sufficient evidence of behavioural change and should lead to increased contact or shared care.

Court Reality

The court distinguishes between compliance (attending a programme) and genuine internalised change. A judge may accept that meaningful steps were taken but still conclude that ongoing attitudes and behaviours show deeper change has not yet occurred. Compliance alone does not demonstrate that the patterns of behaviour which caused harm have genuinely shifted.

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The Gap?

"Attending a domestic abuse programme or course proves I've changed."

Court Reality

The court distinguishes between compliance (attending a programme) and genuine internalised change.

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

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Published27 September 2026Last reviewed8 October 2026

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