Your position statement — the most important document you'll write
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-08-29
What a position statement is
A short document (usually 1–2 sides) filed before a hearing. It tells the judge:
- What you are asking for
- Why you are asking for it
- What the other side says and why you disagree
- What order you want the court to make
It is the judge's first impression of you and your case. Make it count.
The format
``` IN THE [COURT NAME] Case No: [number]
BETWEEN: [Your name] (Applicant) and [Their name] (Respondent)
POSITION STATEMENT OF [YOUR NAME] FOR THE HEARING ON [DATE]
1. I am the [applicant/respondent]. I am asking the court to [state what you want].
2. The key issues for today's hearing are [list them].
3. I say that [your key point] because [evidence/bundle page reference].
4. I am willing to [mediate/attend a programme/compromise on X].
[Name] [Date] ```
Golden rules
1. One page (or two at most) — judges have 20 minutes 2. Facts and evidence — not feelings or accusations 3. Number every paragraph — makes it easy to reference 4. Reference the bundle — "see the messages at pages 12–15" 5. End with what order you want — specific and realistic
Common mistakes
- Too long (judges skim; your best point gets lost)
- Emotional language (undermines credibility)
- No bundle references (the judge can't find your evidence)
- Raising new allegations at the last minute (directions exist for a reason)
- Missing the filing deadline (your statement may not be read)
What to avoid writing
- "She is a liar and everyone knows it"
- "The court always sides with mothers"
- Long explanations of the relationship history (save it for your witness statement)
- Anything about the other parent's appearance, race, or personal life that isn't relevant to the child's welfare
Serving it
- Send to the court and the other side (or their solicitor)
- By the directions deadline (usually 7–14 days before the hearing)
- By email (unless the court directs otherwise) — keep the sent copy
Official links
- PD27A and hearing guidance: https://www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/family
- https://www.gov.uk/looking-after-children-divorce
This page is general information, not legal advice. YourFamilyCase.co.uk is an independent information directory and is not affiliated with HMCTS or gov.uk.
Content verified against the official HMCTS court directory, gov.uk forms and fees pages, and the professional body registers (SRA, FMC, Bar Council). Last reviewed September 2026.
Preparing a statement or other papers for a hearing? EvidenceCanvas is an online tool for people who represent themselves in the family court. You add your messages, letters and orders, and it helps you put together a chronology, an exhibit bundle and a draft statement. You check and finish every document yourself.
It is a paid tool with monthly plans and one-off options, and a limited free plan to try it. Check the current prices on its website before you choose a plan. It is not a law firm, it does not give legal advice and it cannot tell you how your case will turn out. If you can get legal advice or legal aid, consider that first.
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