Looking for help in your family court proceedings?Bridge The Gap is a free, community-built guide to UK family court, written by litigants and McKenzie Friends, for litigants. Real observations, plain English, and people who can help.
Assumption: "Court welfare officers come to your case with an open mind and assess it on its merits."
1 min readThis 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
That Cafcass officers and court welfare officers come to each case with an open mind, assess the family on its merits, and reach their recommendations only after proper investigation.
Court Reality
One parent's account: welfare officers seemed to have decided the outcome from the start. After an appeal was upheld, the replacement officers made clear there would be consequences for challenging them. This is one person's experience, not proof of a universal pattern — but it reflects a real perception among many litigants that welfare officers arrive with their conclusion already formed.
This insight was contributed by someone who has been through the family court system. Bridge The Gap is deeply grateful to everyone who shares their experience — your honesty helps bridge the gap for the next person still in it.
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The Gap?
"Court welfare officers come to your case with an open mind and assess it on its merits."
Court Reality
One parent's account: welfare officers seemed to have decided the outcome from the start. After an appeal was upheld, the replacement officers made clear there would be consequences for challenging them.
Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.
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