What is a McKenzie Friend

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A litigant in person, (someone representing themselves), has the right to have assistance from a McKenzie Friend. McKenzie Friends usually attend court appearances with the litigant-in-person and provide guidance to that person as they present their own cases to the court. McKenzie Friends often have a strong passion and insight into family law and are able to offer you assistance and guidance throughout your case.

 

A litigant in person can apply for ‘Rights of Audience’ for us to address the court on your behalf, although this is not guaranteed it is often granted due to the many years of experience that we have.

 

We also provide a wide range of additional services, including preparation of the litigant’s case and emotional support. Whilst we have McKenzie Friends who will attend court with you we also have a paralegal who holds a law degree who can attend court with you instead should you wish.

 

McKenzie Friends can:

 

• Provide moral support for the litigant

• Take Notes

• Help with case papers

• Quietly advise on points of law or procedure, issues that the litigant may wish to raise in court or questions the litigant may wish to ask witnesses

• In relevant circumstances we will recommend a litigant applies for ‘rights of audience’. A successful application will enable us to address the court and examine witnesses.

 

We achieve top results at a fraction of the price of a solicitor or barrister.

 

• Free initial telephone consultation

• Expert assistance with all documents including statements, skeleton arguments and letters

• We have years of experience of cases involving children and divorce financial settlements 

• Expert assistance in court at a fraction of the cost of a solicitor or barrister

• Children cases - Cases involving social services, child abuse, sexual allegations, children in care, child contact, lived with orders etc.

• Highly effective advice on managing relationships with authorities such as the police, schools and social services and CAFCASS

• Injunctions – Non-Molestation orders, Occupation orders, Restraining orders

• Financial Divisions – Separating property, bank monies, assets, pensions etc. when couples separate or divorce

• We have extensive experience with financial cases and have assisted in court with more than 300 complex financial cases since 2011.

• Tried and tested conciliatory methods to prevent or bring a swift end to court proceedings

• Appeals at all levels

• Guidance on the options available to separating couples including alternative dispute resolution and litigation

• Assistance in preparing conciliatory letters between separating couples and parents

• Guidance on court procedures

• Assistance inside the courtroom both on video-link and personal attendance

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