More than half of all private family law cases in England and Wales now involve at least one person representing themselves. You are not alone, and you do not need a solicitor to participate effectively in your own case.
This guide explains what to expect at each type of hearing, how to prepare your documents, and how to present your case clearly — without paying solicitor rates.
Litigant in person is the legal term for someone representing themselves in court. Judges are required to make allowances for litigants in person and explain procedures as they go. You have the right to be heard.
Family court cases typically move through several hearing types. Understanding what each one is for helps you prepare the right things at the right time.
The first hearing in most child arrangements cases. CAFCASS will have produced a safeguarding letter. The judge will try to narrow the issues and encourage agreement. You should bring a short position statement (1 page) and be ready to say what you want and why.
A hearing to see whether agreement is possible before a final hearing. More documents will have been exchanged by now. The judge may give directions or encourage settlement. Preparation matters more here than at the FHDRA.
If there are disputed allegations of domestic abuse or harm, the court may hold a fact-finding hearing to determine what happened. This is the most complex hearing type — witness statements, cross-examination, and a formal judgment. If you face one, seek a McKenzie Friend or duty solicitor.
The hearing at which the judge makes final orders. You will present your full case — witness statement, evidence bundle, oral submissions. Preparation is everything. The judge is deciding the outcome.
Common mistake: Turning up with a folder of unsorted documents and no clear position. The judge has limited time. A well-organised case makes a better impression than a detailed but disorganised one.
Address the judge as "Your Honour" in the Family Court (not "My Lord" or "Your Lordship"). Stand when the judge enters and leaves. Speak clearly and slowly — judges take notes by hand.
When it's your turn to speak:
Organising your evidence, extracting key dates, finding contradictions in the other party's statements, and drafting your position statement are all tasks that AI tools can help with — significantly faster than doing them manually.
MyCaseOrganiser is built specifically for this. Upload your documents, run the analysis tools, and generate your position statement from the evidence — ready to review and personalise before filing.
Upload your documents, build your timeline, find the contradictions. Walk in prepared.
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Not legal advice. This guide provides general information about family court procedures in England and Wales. Every case is different. Consult a qualified solicitor or Citizens Advice for advice specific to your situation.