1. What is a McKenzie Friend?
A McKenzie Friend is a trained person who helps you in court by giving guidance, emotional support, and help with documents.
They can quietly advise you, take notes, and help you prepare — but they are not a solicitor or barrister.
2. What is the difference between a McKenzie Friend and a solicitor?
A solicitor represents you and speaks on your behalf in court.
A McKenzie Friend supports you directly — helping you stay calm, understand the process, and prepare your paperwork at a much lower cost.
3. Can I take a McKenzie Friend to a court hearing?
Yes. The court rules under Family Procedure Rules 2010, Rule 27.11 allow any litigant to bring a McKenzie Friend, unless there’s a clear reason to refuse (which is very rare).
4. What can a McKenzie Friend do in court?
They can:
- Sit beside you
- Help you organise papers and evidence
- Whisper advice or pass written notes
- Suggest questions to ask
They normally cannot speak directly to the judge, unless the judge gives permission.
5. How do I find a reliable McKenzie Friend?
Look for someone who:
- Has real case experience and legal knowledge
- Is calm and respectful in court
- Offers written agreements and clear pricing
- Has genuine client reviews (like on Trustpilot, Yell, and FreeIndex)
- Is insured and transparent about their limits
6. What makes a good McKenzie Friend?
A good McKenzie Friend:
- Listens carefully before giving advice
- Puts the child’s best interests first
- Is emotionally intelligent, patient, and well-prepared
- Focuses on solutions, not conflict
7. Do you meet clients in person or online?
Both. I work mainly near Ipswich, Suffolk, but I support clients across England & Wales through online meetings, phone calls, and document sharing.
8. What types of cases do you help with?
- Child arrangements (C100 applications, Cafcass interviews)
- Non-molestation and occupation orders
- Position statements and Section 7 reports
- Financial arrangements after separation
- Fact-finding hearings (PD12J)
9. How much does it cost to hire you?
I always give a fixed price before starting.
Simple advice calls start affordably, and full court support is usually offered for a fixed fee, not by the hour.
10. Can you speak to Cafcass or my ex-partner for me?
I can help you prepare what to say and review your written communication, but I do not contact Cafcass or the other parent directly — that keeps things professional and within court guidance.
11. Can I get help urgently before a hearing?
Yes. If your hearing is soon, I can prioritise your case — helping you prepare a position statement, organise your evidence, or book an emergency consultation.
12. How can I contact you?
You can:
- Book a free consultation → https://calendly.com/everymanjustice
- Email → info@everymanjustice.co.uk
- Call → 07599 322717
Everyman Justice provides McKenzie Friend support in England and Wales, helping parents understand the Family Court process with clarity and confidence.
