What is a McKenzie Friend?
- Sophie Buck
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
Did you ever imagine you’d need to understand the workings, process and procedures of the UK Family Court system? Me neither. But sometimes in life, things don’t quite go the way you planned and you end up needing to face family court proceedings, without any prior knowledge or experience.
Navigating the family court system can feel overwhelming, particularly if you are going through the process without legal representation such as a solicitor or barrister to assist you. If you opt to represent yourself through choice or necessity, you’re known as a Litigant in Person. And at this point, most people quickly realise that the process is going to be complex, emotional and difficult to manage alone. This is where a McKenzie Friend can play a valuable role.
Understanding the Role of a McKenzie Friend
A McKenzie Friend is someone who provides support to a Litigant in Person before and during family court proceedings. They are not necessarily legally qualified, but they are permitted to assist with practical and emotional support throughout the process.
The concept originates from a 1970 case (McKenzie v McKenzie), where it was established that individuals have the right to receive reasonable assistance in court.
In summary, a McKenzie Friend can:
Sit with you in court
Help prepare and organise documents and case papers
Take notes during hearings
Offer quiet advice on points being discussed
Provide moral support during what is often a stressful experience
However, it is important to understand that a McKenzie Friend does not have the automatic right to speak on your behalf, conduct litigation, or address the judge directly (unless specifically granted permission by the court in exceptional circumstances).
How a McKenzie Friend Supports Litigants in Person
Family court proceedings whether relating to children or finances can be particularly challenging. The emotional stakes are high, and the legal framework can be difficult to navigate without guidance.
Child Arrangements Proceedings
When dealing with child arrangements (such as where a child lives or how much time they spend with each parent), the court’s focus is always on the best interests of the child. For a Litigant in Person, presenting your case clearly and staying focused on relevant issues can be difficult due to the sheer enormity of emotions relating to anything that involves your child.
A McKenzie Friend can help by:
Assisting you in preparing statements and organising evidence
Helping you stay focused on key issues during hearings
Providing reassurance in what can be an emotionally charged environment
Ensuring you understand what is happening at each stage of the process
This support can make a significant difference to how confident and prepared you feel when presenting your case.
Financial Remedy Proceedings
Financial proceedings following separation or divorce often involve detailed disclosure, legal principles and procedural steps that can feel daunting without legal assistance.
A McKenzie Friend may assist by:
Helping you organise financial documents and disclosure
Supporting you in preparing for hearings such as First Directions Appointments (FDA) or Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) hearings
Taking notes so you can focus on what is being said
Offering guidance to help you stay on track during negotiations
While they cannot replace a qualified solicitor or barrister, they can provide practical assistance that helps you manage the process more effectively.
Benefits of Using a McKenzie Friend
For many Litigants in Person, a McKenzie Friend offers:
Affordability compared to full legal representation
Emotional reassurance during a stressful time
Practical support with paperwork and court procedures
Increased confidence when attending court
Having someone by your side who understands the process can make the experience feel far less isolating.
Important Considerations
While there are clear benefits, it is important to choose a McKenzie Friend carefully.
McKenzie Friends are not regulated in the same way as solicitors or barristers
The quality of support can vary
They must act in your best interests and respect court rules
The court retains the power to refuse a McKenzie Friend if there are concerns about their behaviour
Final Thoughts
Facing family court as a Litigant in Person is never easy, whether you are dealing with arrangements for your children or resolving financial matters. A McKenzie Friend can provide valuable support, helping you feel more organised, informed and confident throughout the process. However, it is important to understand both the scope and the limitations of their role. They are there to assist not to replace qualified legal advice.
If you are considering using a McKenzie Friend, taking the time to find someone experienced, professional and supportive can make a meaningful difference to your journey through the family court system.
If you’re looking for McKenzie Friend support, why not book a free Discovery Call and I can provide you with some professional advice about your situation.
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