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.
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The Gaps
Family court is full of things nobody warns you about.
We call them Gaps — the difference between what people believe about family court and what actually happens. Reading them before your hearing could change everything.
The court knows you are unrepresented
Judges are used to hearing from people without lawyers. Litigants often report that clear, calm and well-organised points land better than long ones.
Communication usually goes through the solicitor
Once the other side is represented, letters and documents commonly come from their solicitor. Many people reply in writing, keep it brief and factual, and keep copies.
Be careful what you agree to
Litigants sometimes say they felt pressure to agree things quickly. Taking time to read and think before agreeing anything is a common approach.
Consider support alongside you
A McKenzie Friend can help you prepare, keep track of papers and support you in the hearing.
Did you know?
Most people go into family court believing things that simply aren't true.
The Gaps are short, honest explanations of the most common family court misconceptions — written in plain English, not legal jargon. Each one covers what people believe, why that belief exists, and what the court reality actually is.
How Bridge The Gap Can Help
McKenzie Friends
Browse our directory of court support professionals.
Find SupportFamily Court Reality
Plain-English analyses of the most common family court misconceptions — so you know what to actually expect.
Explore the GapsResources & Guides
Access guides to court forms, procedures, and resources to help you prepare and present your case effectively.
View ResourcesFrequently Asked Questions
Your experience matters
Have you been through family court? You know something others don't.
The Gaps are built from real litigant experiences. If you discovered something in your case that nobody warned you about — something that changed how you understood the process — your contribution could help someone else avoid the same shock.