UK Family Court Child Arrangement Hearing Attendance Guide: Step-by-Step Self-Representation for Litigants in Person

UK Family Court Child Arrangement Hearing Attendance Guide -

Step-by-Step Self-Representation for Litigants in Person

Attending a UK Family Court child arrangement hearing can feel overwhelming — especially if you are representing yourself.

This guide has been created specifically for Litigants in Person who need clear, practical support to attend a child arrangements hearing confidently and calmly, whether in person or remotely.

Written by experienced Professional McKenzie Friends, Dave Barma and Gemma Bailey who have both attended hundreds of hearings, this guide explains what really happens before, during and after a hearing in plain English, without legal jargon.

This is not legal advice. It is real-world, experience-based guidance designed to help you feel prepared, organised, and supported.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE GUIDE

✔ Step-by-step guidance for in-person and remote hearings
✔ What to expect before, during and after your hearing
✔ How to prepare your documents and evidence
✔ What happens when you arrive at court (security, ushers, waiting areas)
✔ Guidance on remote hearings (video/telephone)
✔ How to address the judge or magistrates and speak confidently
✔ What to do if you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or intimidated
✔ Clear explanations of court roles (Judge, Cafcass, Usher, Legal Adviser)
✔ Special measures explained and how to request them
✔ Emotional wellbeing and self-care strategies
✔ Frequently asked questions answered in plain English

PRACTICAL TOOLS INCLUDED

✔ Court day checklists
✔ What-to-bring checklists
✔ Sample scripts and phrases you can use in court
✔ Key terms explained clearly
✔ Templates and practical examples
✔ Useful support services and resources

WHO THIS GUIDE IS FOR

✔ People attending a Child Arrangements hearing
✔ Litigants in Person (People representing themselves)
✔ Anyone attending court alone
✔ Those attending in person or remotely
✔ People who want clear guidance without legal jargon

WHO THIS GUIDE IS NOT FOR

✘ This is not legal advice
✘ This does not guarantee any court outcome

WHY THIS GUIDE IS DIFFERENT

This guide is written by people who have:

• Supported hundreds of parents in Family Court
• Attended countless child arrangements hearings
• Personally experienced the Family Court process themselves in their own proceedings

It is practical, calm, realistic, and compassionate, created to help you navigate the day, not overwhelm you with law.

FORMAT

📘 Digital PDF
📱 Easy to read on phone, tablet or computer
🖨 Printable if you wish

IMPORTANT NOTICE

This guide provides general information only and is based on practical experience supporting Litigants in Person.
It does not provide legal advice or legal representation.

PRODUCED BY

Dave Barma & Gemma Bailey
Experienced Professional McKenzie Friends