The Family Court without a Lawyer

The Family Court in the UK deals with matters related to family issues, including divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and financial settlements. It aims to resolve disputes and make decisions in the best interests of all family members, especially children.

Yes, you can represent yourself in Family Court. This is known as being a 'litigant in person'. However, it's advisable to seek legal advice or support from organisations that assist with family law matters.

To start legal proceedings, you need to complete and submit the relevant forms to the court. The specific forms depend on your case type, such as divorce, child custody, or financial orders. Fees may apply.

Court fees vary depending on the type of case. For example, as of 2023, the fee for filing a divorce petition (Form D8) is £593. Fee exemptions or reductions may be available based on financial circumstances.

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is a meeting to see if mediation is a suitable way to resolve your dispute without going to court. It's required before you can apply to the court for certain types of family cases, such as child arrangements or financial orders.

A Child Arrangements Order determines where a child lives, who the child spends time with, and when and how the child sees the parents or other relatives. It is used to resolve disputes about child custody and visitation.

The process of getting a divorce can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the cooperation between parties. On average, it takes around 6 to 9 months.

A consent order is a legal document that makes an agreement between divorcing or separating couples legally binding. It covers financial arrangements like property, maintenance, and pensions. It must be approved by a judge.

If you cannot afford court fees, you might be eligible for a fee exemption or reduction based on your financial circumstances. You can apply for help with fees by completing Form EX160 and submitting it to the court.

If the other party does not attend the court hearing, the court may proceed in their absence, make an order based on the evidence presented, or adjourn the hearing to a later date. It depends on the circumstances and the judge's discretion.

Yes, you can apply for an emergency order, such as a Non-Molestation Order or an Occupation Order, if you or your children are at risk of harm. These orders provide protection against domestic abuse and can be issued quickly.

The welfare checklist is a set of criteria that the court considers when making decisions about a child's upbringing. It includes factors such as the child's wishes and feelings, physical and emotional needs, the effect of any changes, and the capability of parents or carers.

Grandparents do not have an automatic right to contact with their grandchildren, but they can apply for permission from the court to seek a Child Arrangements Order. The court will consider the child's best interests when making a decision.

A fact-finding hearing is held to determine the truth of disputed allegations, often in cases involving domestic abuse or other serious issues. The court assesses evidence and makes findings of fact which can impact the outcome of the case.

Mediation is not compulsory, but attending a MIAM is usually required before you can make a family court application, unless certain exemptions apply. Mediation can be a quicker, less adversarial, and more cost-effective way to resolve disputes.