Entries by jessica susan hill

Family Court Chronology Templates (UK Guide for Litigants in Person)

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A family court chronology is a structured, date-ordered record of significant events designed to help judges identify patterns, risk factors and key issues quickly. This guide provides ready-to-use UK chronology templates — including core date/event/evidence structures, issue-based chronologies, safeguarding timelines and financial disclosure chronologies — all aligned with best practice drafting standards for litigants in person.

Family Court Tools, Templates & Research Support for Litigants in Person (UK Guide)

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Navigating Family Court without representation requires more than determination — it requires structure. This article outlines the tools, templates, checklists and research support available to litigants in person, including chronologies, witness statement frameworks, bundle preparation guides, safeguarding templates and case law analysis. Designed to align with the Family Procedure Rules 2010 and key statutory frameworks, these practical resources help litigants present clear, focused and procedurally compliant cases.

When Court Data Disappears: Why Transparency in Family Courts Matters More Than Ever

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The Ministry of Justice’s decision to delete archived court data has raised significant questions about open justice, AI governance and transparency. This article examines what the controversy means in practical terms for family court users and litigants-in-person navigating delay, safeguarding disputes and systemic opacity.

Remote Hearings in Family Court (UK): What to Expect and How to Prepare

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Family Court hearings may now take place remotely by video or telephone using secure platforms such as CVP or the HMCTS video hearings service. Remote hearings require careful preparation — from technical readiness and privacy to clear communication and procedural awareness. This article explains what remote hearings are, how they work, what to expect on the day, and practical tips for litigants in person navigating these modern court environments.

McKenzie Friend Support Explained: What It Is, What It Isn’t — and How to Choose the Right One

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What does a McKenzie Friend actually do in Family Court? This article explains the scope and limits of McKenzie Friend support in England and Wales, including rights of audience, drafting assistance, preparation and in-court conduct. It addresses common criticisms of unregulated support, why complaints sometimes arise, and how litigants in person can choose ethically grounded, procedurally competent assistance. With over 100 FAQs included, this is a comprehensive guide to understanding the role and protecting your position.

Litigants in Person Support in Family Court: What Help Exists — and Why Quality McKenzie Friends Matter

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What support is available if you are representing yourself in Family Court? This article explains the different forms of assistance open to litigants in person, including Support Through Court, CAFCASS, Citizens Advice, and McKenzie Friends. It clarifies what each service can and cannot do, the legal basis for McKenzie Friend support, and the importance of professional standards. As family proceedings become increasingly complex, structured and ethically grounded McKenzie support plays a growing role in access to justice.

Family Court Procedure Explained: A Practical Guide for Litigants in Person (England & Wales)

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How does Family Court procedure actually work in England and Wales? This guide explains each stage — from issuing a C100 or Form A, through safeguarding checks, directions hearings, evidence exchange, and final determination. It outlines the role of CAFCASS, the welfare principle under the Children Act 1989, financial disclosure requirements, and the importance of complying with court directions. If you are representing yourself, understanding procedure is essential to presenting your case clearly and confidently.

Evidence Readiness in Family Court: What It Looks Like and Why It Wins Cases

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What does it mean to be “evidence ready” in Family Court? It means understanding what must be proved, aligning your documents to the legal issues, organising exhibits properly, and being able to respond confidently under scrutiny. This article explains how to prepare chronologies, structure witness statements, test your own material before cross-examination, and ensure compliance with the Family Procedure Rules 2010. Evidence readiness is not volume — it is precision, clarity and strategic preparation.