Members sometimes reach out to the Network with queries on various topics. They can receive a combination of responses as other members offer their suggestions and so does ASPN which may include general advice or links to resources.

One of our members recently asked for advice about completing Form E:

“Form E – I’m currently navigating financial proceedings and self-representing in family court. If anyone has experience with completing Form E, handling disclosure, or managing the process without legal representation, I’d really appreciate any tips, advice, or resources you can share.”

Disclaimer: Please note that this is not legal advice, but responses are based on the experiences of some of our members.

Member 1

One of our members is a solicitor and said: “Happy to give them a whistle stop tour of the steps…free of charge of course!”

Member 2:

Hi. I hope you are well? It is important to make sure you have no distractions and take it slowly. Also to help you I would make sure you have up to date financial documents to include bank accounts, ISA’s that you may have savings accounts, upto date Mortgage statement, payslips, P45 or P60 if available, credit card statements, rough estimate of any jewellery, house contents before completing. If you call the banks they will e-mail quite quickly or give you online access. Also have in mind what the children need to include housing needs and education including University costs. It is important you are honest and have in mind what you need going forwards. I hope this helps and wish you all the best.

Advice Now guide to filling out Form E

Member 3:

Hi there, well done for taking this on — self-representing in financial proceedings can be challenging, but it’s manageable with the right tools and preparation. Here are some practical tips that might help:

Form E Tips:

• Complete it in sections and take your time — it’s detailed, so break it down step by step.
• Be accurate and honest with all financial information — include assets, debts, income, and pensions.
• Keep your supporting documents (bank statements, mortgage info, payslips, etc.) well organised.
• Use section 2.4 to explain anything that needs context, using clear and neutral language.

 Disclosure:

• Ask for full financial disclosure from the other party if it hasn’t been provided.
• Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
• If something is missing or unclear, raise it in writing or at the next hearing.

Representing Yourself:

Useful Resources:

• Advice Now has free, clear guides — especially helpful for Form E.
• Support Through Court offers help for people attending without legal representation.
• McKenzie Friend Service – Keep things clear, consistent, and focused on facts. If you need to ask more later on, there are people around who can help.

All the best.

Member 4

I am on a similar journey, I have completed my form E with the help of this YouTube video. Her explanation is simple, straight forward and easy to follow.

Press pause often.

Breathe.

I worked through it over a week. Tackling a section a day, because financial matters are very overwhelming for me. Think of all your running costs, your household expenses and how you are living now, what additional cost you will have after the divorce. I would then use a McKenzie friend to go over the form E for feedback. Call the pension people, I found it easier to speak to people in person over the phone regarding the mortgage, pension and for financial clarity. ‎

Member 5:

Yes! Do the form E one bit at a time, it’s a really long form. Maybe get a Mckenzie friend to check if lawyers are too expensive. Also don’t forget pensions – if either of you are 40 or over and/or one’s pension is more than the other, it’s worth getting an expert report to review these.

Member 6:

I self represented and managed it all myself – but I still hired a direct access barrister to represent me at hearings (one that had a reputation in family law).

The question itself is massive & really depends on where they are in the process. If court is avoidable and can they can exchange form e voluntarily and try to come to an amicable conclusion it will help.

ASPN:

One of our divorce consultant contacts, Rhiannon Ford, produces e-books around completing Form E.