The person who starts a court application. In family court, the applicant is the one asking the court to make an order — for example, applying for a child arrangements order or a financial remedy.
In Plain English
The person who officially starts the court case by asking the court to make a decision or an order.
This content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
A "gap" is a common assumption people hold going into family court, set against what the court actually does. The bold line below is the assumption — not a fact. The reality underneath is what the court typically observes.
Gap #97
The assumption
I am being dragged to court to have my character defiled. I am the one being bullied here. My refusal to engage is self-defence.
The reality
A respondent's refusal to engage often leads to serious consequences. The applicant may have no choice but to go to court if the respondent won't participate. Under FPR 2010 Part 28.1 and the Senior Courts Act 1981 s.51, the court can order the non-engaging party to pay costs. The court may also draw adverse inferences from non-engagement, which can affect the outcome of the case.
Gap #356
The assumption
(Filing & Emailing the Court) As applicant, the bundle is always my job.
The reality
Standard directions say that if only one party has a solicitor, that solicitor prepares the electronic bundle unless agreed or ordered otherwise. The Bundles Guide for Litigants in Person (paras 3.4 to 3.6) says the same, and that if nobody has a lawyer the judge may order one of the litigants in person, or HMCTS, to prepare it. Otherwise the person who made the application usually prepares it. Some orders direct a litigant in person to do it. Rules and orders differ here: check your own order. See who it names.
Gap #357
The assumption
(Filing & Emailing the Court) If we can't produce a PDF bundle, we'll bring paper.
The reality
The Financial Remedies Guide (paras 84 to 86) says that where the parties cannot produce a compliant electronic bundle, the applicant should contact the court and explain the difficulty as far in advance of the hearing as possible. The Bundles Guide for Litigants in Person (para 7.3) says the same: contact the court as soon as possible, and the judge may agree a paper bundle or give other directions.
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you understand terms like these in the context of your case.
Find your supportWe use essential cookies only to provide you with the best experience on our website. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.