What is a McKenzie Friend?

Family court case can be overwhelming — especially if you're dealing with the emotional strain of a divorce or a child arrangements dispute. If hiring a solicitor or barrister seems financially out of reach, you may have come across the term "McKenzie Friend" in your research. But what is a McKenzie Friend, and how can they help you? 

What is a McKenzie Friend? 

A McKenzie Friend is someone who provides support, guidance, and assistance to an individual representing themselves in court (also known as a “litigant in person”). They aren’t required to have formal legal qualifications, but they can be incredibly valuable in helping you manage the complexities of a legal case.  

McKenzie Friends are a particularly common resource in family law cases, where legal fees can escalate quickly. If you’re dealing with a divorce, financial settlement dispute, or child arrangement case, a McKenzie Friend offers a more affordable way to receive support through an emotionally and financially challenging process. 

Who can be a McKenzie Friend? 

A McKenzie Friend can be anyone you trust to provide assistance. They could be: 

• A friend or family member: Someone you know personally and who understands the significance of your case. 

• A trained McKenzie Friend professional: Many organisations and individuals specialise in offering McKenzie Friend services. They aren’t lawyers but have experience in legal matters. 

• A volunteer or charity support worker: Some organisations provide free or affordable McKenzie Friend assistance for vulnerable individuals. 

Choosing a McKenzie Friend should be done carefully. It should be someone who is reliable, well-organised, and entirely focused on acting in your best interests.  

Can a McKenzie Friend speak in court? 

One of the main limitations of a McKenzie Friend is that they do not have an automatic right to speak in court, and cannot formally represent you in the courtroom. They are often most suitable for people who: 

• Can confidently articulate their case but need guidance on legal procedures 

• Require emotional and organisational support during the process 

• Are unable to afford full legal representation in the form of solicitor and barrister 

If you believe you’ll need formal court representation for your case, a direct access family barrister can present a cost-effective solution, and generally on shorter notice than instructing via a solicitor or third party.  

You can find out more about the direct access scheme, and how it may benefit your case, here. 

What next? 

Family law cases are rarely straightforward, and the support of a McKenzie Friend can make a significant difference for individuals representing themselves.  

If you’re considering whether a McKenzie Friend is right for you, take the time to assess your needs and the type of support required to achieve the best possible outcome.