How to write a witness statement for family court

Written by Nikkie Gilbert, McKenzie Friend and Independent Private IDVA · Updated October 2026

A witness statement is your written account of the facts. The court usually tells you to file one, with a deadline and sometimes a page limit, after the first hearing. A clear, well-organised statement helps the judge understand your case quickly.

Layout

• Heading: the court name, the case number, the names of the parties, and the names and dates of birth of the children
• Top right: your name, which party you are (for example "Applicant"), the statement number (1st, 2nd…) and the date
• Typed, A4, a clear font, 12pt, with page numbers
• Numbered paragraphs, each dealing with one point

What to include

• A short introduction: who you are and your relationship to the children
• The arrangements now, and what you're asking the court for
• The key events, in date order, with dates as exact as you can make them
• Why your proposal is in the children's best interests: their routine, schooling, health and relationships
• Any safety concerns, described factually

What to leave out

• Insults, sarcasm or opinions about the other parent's character
• Things that don't relate to the children or the issues the court is deciding
• Long copies of text messages; attach the key ones as exhibits instead

Exhibits

Documents you rely on, such as messages, school reports or medical letters, are attached as exhibits. Label each one (for example "Exhibit AB1") and refer to it in the right paragraph. Only include what the court has allowed and what genuinely matters.

The statement of truth

End with a statement of truth, then sign and date it. The standard wording is:

"I believe that the facts stated in this witness statement are true. I understand that proceedings for contempt of court may be brought against anyone who makes, or causes to be made, a false statement in a document verified by a statement of truth without an honest belief in its truth."

Tips

• Write it in your own words. The judge wants to hear from you, not a template.
• Keep to the page limit if the court has set one.
• Read it aloud before you sign it. If any part isn't accurate, change it.
• Send it to the court and the other party by the deadline in the order.

How we can help

We can help you organise your thoughts, put events in order and set out your statement clearly, in your own words. See McKenzie Friend services and fees.

Common questions

How long should a family court witness statement be?

Follow any page limit in the court order. If there is none, aim to be as short as you can while covering the key facts.

Can someone help me write my witness statement?

Yes. A McKenzie Friend can help you organise and set it out, but it must be your own account and you must believe it is true.

Do I need to sign my witness statement?

Yes. It must end with a signed and dated statement of truth.

Please note: we provide non-legal support only and do not give legal advice. This page is general information, not advice about your case. Court procedures and fees change; always check the latest on GOV.UK (opens in a new tab).