UK Family Court·Insights for litigants in person
Family Court Reality (the gap) · 98

Assumption: "The court order says we use a co-parenting app. It used to be free. Now they are refusing to pay for it and I cannot enforce communication."

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

If the named app in a court order is no longer free and one party refuses to pay, the order has been breached and there is nothing that can be done — or alternatively, the refusing party must comply with the original app regardless of cost.

Court Reality

Court orders may specify a communication method, but they cannot ensure the app remains free. When an app moves behind a paywall and one party refuses to pay, this often leads to impracticality in the order. Observations suggest that varying the order could help specify a free or mutually agreed alternative.

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Bridge The Gap

The Gap?

"The court order says we use a co-parenting app. It used to be free. Now they are refusing to pay for it and I cannot enforce communication."

Court Reality

Court orders may specify a communication method, but they cannot ensure the app remains free. When an app moves behind a paywall and one party refuses to pay, this often leads to impracticality in the order.

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

familycourtbridge.org

Published4 June 2026Last reviewed8 October 2026

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