Step-by-step
- Before the hearingPractical help may include organising papers, preparing a chronology or checklist and helping the litigant understand the hearing timetable.
- At courtThe McKenzie Friend may provide moral support, take notes, help with papers and quietly give advice, subject to the judge.
- Rights of audienceThere is no automatic right to address the court or examine witnesses. Any permission is exceptional and for the court to decide.
- Conduct of litigationA McKenzie Friend has no automatic right to conduct litigation, file documents as the litigant’s representative or manage the case on their behalf.
- Confidentiality and conductThe litigant should understand how information will be handled and the supporter must not disrupt proceedings.
- The client remains responsibleThe litigant checks and approves documents, files and serves papers, presents the case and makes decisions.
- Use regulated advice when neededA solicitor or barrister is needed for legal advice and representation beyond the McKenzie Friend role.
What you will need
- Written scope and fee
- Role agreed before the hearing
- Court notified where required
- ID and practical attendance details
- Client-controlled papers
- Backup plan if attendance is limited
Common mistakes to avoid
- Calling a McKenzie Friend a legal representative
- Assuming they can speak for the client
- Allowing them to sign or file as if acting on the record
- Choosing support without checking experience and boundaries
- Expecting a guaranteed outcome
Practical paid support
How I can help
Independent McKenzie Friend Support
Preparation from £99; attendance from £199
Remote hearing attendance starts from £199. In-person attendance starts from £295 for a half day and £450 for a full day, plus agreed travel or other costs. The court controls attendance and assistance.
Included
- Preparation within agreed scope
- Quiet support and note-taking where permitted
- Paper organisation
- Transparent quotation
Not included
- Solicitor services or regulated legal advice
- Automatic advocacy rights
- Conducting litigation
- Guaranteed permission or outcome
We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Can a McKenzie Friend speak in court?
Not automatically. Rights of audience are for the court to decide and should not be assumed.
Can the court refuse or limit assistance?
Yes. The court retains control over who may attend and how a McKenzie Friend may assist.
Official sources
- Judiciary: Practice Guidance — McKenzie Friends ↗
- Judiciary: Advice for litigants in person ↗
- Family Procedure Rules: Practice Direction 12B ↗
Guidance checked: 1 November 2026. Always check the latest court order and official source before acting.
Important: This page gives general procedural information for England and Wales. The Everyday McKenzie Friend provides independent, non-regulated practical support and is not a solicitor or barrister. I do not provide regulated legal advice, conduct litigation or have an automatic right to address the court. Court decisions and permission for McKenzie Friend assistance remain matters for the court.