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.
This content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
If you're already a LIP, attending FDR doesn't add significant cost — the court fee is already paid and you're not paying a solicitor for the day. Getting the judge's indicative opinion on the other side's proposal is often the most valuable free legal guidance a LIP will get in their entire case.
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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Bridge The Gap
Self-repping at FDR? The judge's view is free.
Representing yourself at FDR will cost you more than settling beforehand.
Reality
If you're already a LIP, attending FDR doesn't add significant cost — the court fee is already paid and you're not paying a solicitor for the day.
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A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
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