McKenzie Friend support

Gain practical support in court when you are representing yourself. Our McKenzie Friends offer quiet, practical assistance to help you navigate legal processes with greater confidence and calm.

What is a McKenzie Friend?

A McKenzie Friend is someone who can offer quiet, practical assistance to individuals who are representing themselves in court (also known as litigants in person). Our role is to help you feel more supported and less overwhelmed during the court process, without providing legal advice or representation.

Practical court assistance

We provide hands-on support for those representing themselves in court, ensuring you feel less alone and more organised.

Moral support and guidance

Our McKenzie Friends offer a calming presence and guidance, helping you stay focused and confident during hearings.

Administrative help

From organising papers to prompting on key points, we assist with administrative tasks to streamline your court experience.

How we can make a difference

Our McKenzie Friend service is designed to alleviate stress and enhance your ability to navigate the court process effectively, especially when you are representing yourself.

Support in court

A McKenzie Friend may sit with you in court to provide moral support, take notes during hearings, and help you organise papers and bundles on the day. This support can make court feel more manageable, especially if you are nervous, unfamiliar with the process, or attending alone.

When McKenzie Friend support is suitable

McKenzie Friend support may be suitable if you are representing yourself in Family Court, want someone present for reassurance and organisation, have already received legal advice but need practical, in‑court support, or feel anxious attending court alone. All our McKenzie Friends are legally qualified professionals.