McKenzie Friend :: Support to Litigants in Person representing themselves in court

If representing yourself in court, you have the right to take a supporter into court with you. Such a person is called a “McKenzie Friend” - so called after the case of McKenzie v McKenzie [1970] http://www.andrewgray.uklinux.net/legalsupport/procedures56.html

Who can be my McKenzie Friend? 

Anybody you want - e.g. a personal friend, a solicitor, a work colleague, or a relative - anybody you wish who you feel will support you. 

Should it be a lawyer? 

There is no need for them to be a lawyer. A lawyer can advise you on the law, but you need to focus on the facts of your case. It is the facts you will be presenting and arguing.  

Why do I need a McKenzie Friend? 

As one of the parties in a case, you are, by definition, emotionally involved, and have more than a financial stake in the outcome. Emotions can prevent you thinking clearly, listening carefully and understanding what is being said. 

Your McKenzie Friend can keep you focused on the facts, help you present and manage your case in the most effective way, and help you feel less alone.  

What can my McKenzie Friend do? 

• Sit beside you in court. 
• Take notes. 
• Suggest questions for you to ask. 
• Keep you focused on your case and what you want to say. 
• Be another pair of ears to listen for you. 
• Help you stay less emotional and give factual responses. 
• Help you to ask questions simply and clearly so they are understandable. 

They cannot speak to anybody apart from you. 

When do I have to tell the court about my McKenzie Friend? 

You simply need to tell the clerk at the beginning of your case that you have an assistant who you wish to have sitting beside you. 

Where can I find a McKenzie Friend? 

Shelagh Goldie qualified lawyer and law society accredited mediator, and divorce coach Kirsten Gronning have been developing work to support people with their divorce. This includes offering to be a McKenzie Friend. 

We understand the legal system, understand how being in court affects people and we are experienced in helping clients manage both their case and their emotions in an appropriate way. This is what Christine said about the service:

“ Thanks for your support, it really helped me. I now understand the approach to take and I see the way the judge works and what she is looking for. I understand that I need clear evidence to back up anything I say. I know what I need to do now.”  

Click here to read more about how our McKenzie Friend service helped Christine to focus on the facts of the case and how to present them.

Why not contact us now to discuss how we can make a courtroom appearances a more positive experience.