Litigants in Person Guide

You decide the strategy, gather evidence, present it to the judge, cross examine your ex partner and understand the effect of the orders you're asking for.

You can bring a McKenzie Friend for quiet support, but the judge decides how much they can do.

Note every deadline, hearing date, and filing requirement. Courts rarely extend deadlines unless you show good reason. 

In Divorcify you can save all of the applications, directions, hearings and orders.

Keep one master bundle with a clear index, page numbers, and the same version for you, the other party, and the court. Using the Divorcify App you will have your own personal assistant to keep track of all the evidence and it will even prepare a basic bundle for you.

Focus on facts, dates, and documents. Avoid emotional language; judges look for clarity and relevance. Always speak to the judge, everything is directed to them. Don't be afraid to show your emotions, but never lose your cool and always tell the truth.

It is acceptable to ask the judge or usher to explain the process, hearing order, or what is expected next. You can't and won't be expected to understand all of the process. But, make it your job to learn it, read about it and watch videos on it. Divorcify aims to arm you with everything you need to get yourself through court.

An application is issued, then the other side responds. Read any directions the court gives at this stage.

The judge sets deadlines for disclosure, witness statements, and any experts. Divorcify will help you manage your case, keep logs of all applications, evidence, hearings, directions and orders.

Short hearings deal with specific issues such as contact times, temporary orders or directions. Bring concise notes and any updated documents.

Evidence is given, witnesses are questioned, and the judge decides. You will likely give your evidence, cross-examine, and make brief submissions.

Check in with the usher and have copies of everything you may need to hand up. Do not be late, having an hour to spare before the hearing will allow you to familiarise yourself with the layout, meet the ushers, even speak to the support through court team.

Use Judge or Your Honour, and Sir or Maam for magistrates. Stand when the judge enters or leaves the court and when you speak unless told otherwise. Always speak to the judge, even when being cross examined. Never lose your cool and always be respectful.

Keep a one-page hearing note with what you want, why you want it, and where the evidence sits in the bundle. Be very precise, understand the ramifications of each request you're making in terms of child arrangements and financial remedy.

Answer questions directly, refer to page numbers, and correct misunderstandings politely. If you don't understand the question, as them to repeat it, if you need clarification on the page number or the reference for the evidence.

Write down any orders or directions immediately and check you understand the next steps before leaving. Do not leave the court with any unanswered questions you may have in your mind. This is your case it is imperative you understand exactly what is expected of you, your ex and what needs complying with.

• Application forms: C100, Form A, FL401 and N244.
• Statements and evidence: witness statement template with numbered paragraphs and exhibits.
• Orders: draft order template with a clear title, numbered paragraphs, and who must do what by when.
• Accessibility: keep editable versions and a clean PDF for filing.

• Complete in the app then export to PDF so page numbers stay consistent with your bundle.
• Save drafts regularly and keep a version history.
• Before filing, check names, dates, exhibit labels and statement of truth.
• Share securely and avoid messaging apps for confidential documents.
• When filing by email or portal, include the case number, parties, hearing date and a short cover note.

• Court guidance: GOV.UK court finder, family court guides, and local court practice directions.
• Mediation: explore if safe to do so; a MIAM is often required before certain applications.
• Free advice: Citizens Advice, Support Through Court, LawWorks pro bono clinics and Advocate.
• Wellbeing: plan breaks, bring water and snacks, and consider support for childcare or work.

What they may wear: District or Family judges may wear business attire or robes; magistrates wear business attire. No wigs in most family hearings.

Where they are: At the front of the courtroom. The clerk or usher will tell you when to enter and where to sit.

What they do: Runs the hearing, decides procedure, and makes the order. Tell them clearly what you are asking for and where to find your evidence.

What they may wear: Name badge, smart attire, often with a clipboard or tablet.

Where they are: In the waiting area or outside the courtroom door managing the list.

What they do: Checks you in, calls you into court, takes documents to the judge, and can answer process questions but not give legal advice.

What they may wear: Smart clothing; lawyers often in suits or gown if a more formal court.

Where they are: Waiting area or consultation rooms. Keep communication polite and brief.

What they do: They present their case. You must still serve them with any documents you file so everyone has the same material.

What they may wear: Business attire with ID badge.

Where they are: They may meet you before a hearing about children to understand safeguarding concerns.

What they do: Reports on children's welfare and can make recommendations the judge will consider carefully.

What they may wear: Uniformed staff at the entrance.

Where they are: At building entry and near waiting areas.

What they do: Manage screening and safety. Allow extra time for queues and bag checks.

Arriving at court