Navigating Family Court matters without a lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially when the issues involve your children, your home, or your safety. However, with the right support, it is possible to represent yourself effectively and with confidence.
When you’re representing yourself in the family court, it’s not just about filling out forms—it’s a whole lot more than that. To navigate it effectively, ask yourself: Are my requests reasonable, realistic, and achievable and in the best interests of your child(ren)? From the court’s perspective? The child psyhological and emotional needs. Then, sketch out a strategy and plan. read more about Self-representation on this link.
The Family Court Self-Representation Support (FDSS) is a service designed specifically for individuals who are representing themselves in Family Court. Whether you are going through a separation, applying for a parenting order, seeking protection from family violence, or dividing relationship property, FDSS provides structured and practical assistance tailored to your situation.
This guide explains how FDSS supports parents at each stage of their Family Court journey.
Skills You Need to Represent Yourself Effectively
While FDSS provides robust support, successful self-representation also depends on a set of core personal and practical skills. These include:
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The ability to stay calm and respectful under pressure
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Good time management and communication (written and spoken)
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Basic digital skills for accessing forms and resources online
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The capacity to think critically and adapt to unexpected situations
You do not need to master these skills before starting—many parents build them along the way with the help of FDSS.
FDSS Support Structure: A Four-Stage Model
FDSS offers support through four clearly defined stages. You can choose the stage that matches where you are in the process.
Stage 1: Filing or Responding to Court Applications
This stage supports parents who are just starting their Family Court journey.
FDSS can help you:
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Understand what type of application or response is appropriate
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Complete and file the correct court forms
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Draft your statement of evidence or affidavit
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Develop an early case strategy to present your situation clearly
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Set realistic expectations for outcomes
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Ensure your documents meet Family Court standards
This is often the first step for parents dealing with parenting orders, protection orders, or relationship property applications.
Stage 2: Ongoing Case Coaching and Support
Once your case has been filed, FDSS offers ongoing support to help manage everything that comes next.
Support includes:
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Dedicated one-on-one coaching to guide your decisions
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Strategic advice as your case progresses through court processes
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Review and feedback on legal documents, emails, and correspondence
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Assistance with interim applications or case conferences
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Emotional support and reassurance during stressful moments
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Access to training, resources, and self-help tools
This stage is ideal for parents needing consistent support over time.
Stage 3: Hearing Preparation and Training
If your case is moving toward a court hearing, Stage 3 ensures that you are fully prepared to present your case effectively.
FDSS helps you:
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Review and organise your evidence
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Draft structured opening and closing Submissions
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Prepare for oral submissions in court
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Practise how to respond to cross-examination
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Understand what to expect during the hearing
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Review court bundles and key documents
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Plan your strategy for hearing day
Proper preparation can make a significant difference in how confident and persuasive you are in court.
Stage 4: In-Person Court Support (McKenzie Friend Service)
If you would like support during your hearing, FDSS offers a McKenzie Friend or Lay Assistant service.
This stage provides:
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A trained support person to sit with you in court
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Quiet guidance and reminders during the hearing
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Help with note-taking and staying organised in real-time
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Assistance with courtroom etiquette and procedures
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Post-hearing debriefing to discuss next steps
Although McKenzie Friends cannot speak for you, they offer critical emotional and strategic support on the day.
Flexibility and Tailored Assistance
You do not need to use all four stages. Many parents choose only the support they need, whether it is filing documents, preparing for a hearing, or attending court. If your case involves multiple legal issues—such as both parenting and property—FDSS can assist across all aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive help if I’ve already filed my application or response?
Yes. You can access support at any stage, even if your documents are already filed.
Can FDSS help with both children’s care and relationship property disputes?
Yes. FDSS is experienced in assisting with all types of Family Court applications, including complex or combined cases.
Can FDSS help with domestic violence cases?
Yes. FDSS provides sensitive and practical support for applicants or respondents involved in protection order proceedings.
What if I’m not sure which stage I’m in?
You can contact FDSS, and they will guide you to the most appropriate stage of support.
Getting Started
To begin receiving support, you can:
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Request a call back via the website
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Complete a brief registration form
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Contact the team directly by email or phone
Email: support@fdss.org.nz
Phone: 09 2424 150 (North Island)
Phone: 03 2424 500 (South Island)
Website: www.fdss.org.nz
Take the First Step Toward Empowering Yourself
If you are facing a Family Court matter and need guidance without the cost of a lawyer, FDSS is here to help. You do not have to do this alone. We do not provide legal advice.
You can check the testmonials of hundreds of parents who we have helped over a decade on this link.
Learn more about how the service works, read real examples, and explore your next steps at:
https://www.fdss.org.nz/self-representation-support-in-the-family-court/
