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Affordable Family Court Help

Representing Yourself in Family Court

A person who conducts their own case is often called a litigant in person. You are expected to comply with court orders and procedure, but you can use official guidance, ask court staff about administrative process and seek appropriate legal or practical support.

Book a Free 30-Minute ConsultationSend an Email Enquiry

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.

Step-by-step

  1. Create a case fileKeep applications, orders, statements, reports, correspondence and proof of filing in clear folders.
  2. Use the latest order as your task listRecord deadlines, responsibilities and the next hearing.
  3. Understand the purpose of each hearingPrepare for the decisions actually listed rather than trying to argue the whole case every time.
  4. Write clearly and proportionatelyUse numbered paragraphs, accurate dates and respectful factual language.
  5. File and serve correctlyKnow what must go to the court and other parties, how and by when. Keep proof.
  6. Prepare speaking notesList your main points, evidence references and the order or direction requested.
  7. Behave calmly in courtAddress the judge or magistrates respectfully, listen, take notes and avoid interruption.
  8. Know when specialist advice is neededUrgency, domestic abuse, jurisdiction, complex evidence, enforcement and financial settlements may require a regulated adviser.

What you will need

  • Case chronology
  • All sealed orders
  • Deadline tracker
  • Hearing-specific file
  • Bundle page references
  • Speaking notes
  • Support and accessibility arrangements

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Missing deadlines because no reminder system exists
  • Sending lengthy informal emails to the judge
  • Using irrelevant material
  • Failing to serve the other party
  • Assuming court staff can give legal advice

Practical paid support

How I can help

Preparation for Litigants in Person

From £99

A focused 60-minute online hearing preparation session is £99. Broader preparation, document support or attendance can be agreed from the published Fees page.

Included

  • Process and hearing preparation
  • Issue and document organisation
  • Practical checklists
  • Clear McKenzie Friend boundaries

Not included

  • Legal advice
  • Conducting litigation
  • Speaking for you without specific court permission
Book a Free 30-Minute ConsultationSend an Email Enquiry

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Will the court help me run my case?

Court staff can explain administrative processes but cannot give legal advice. The judge must remain impartial.

Can someone sit with me?

A McKenzie Friend may be permitted to provide the recognised forms of assistance, subject to the court’s control.

Official sources

Guidance checked: 1 November 2026. Always check the latest court order and official source before acting.

Important: This page gives general procedural information for England and Wales. The Everyday McKenzie Friend provides independent, non-regulated practical support and is not a solicitor or barrister. I do not provide regulated legal advice, conduct litigation or have an automatic right to address the court. Court decisions and permission for McKenzie Friend assistance remain matters for the court.