What is a mckenzie friend

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A McKenzie Friend is a term used primarily in common law jurisdictions, including England and Wales. It refers to a person who provides assistance and support to an individual representing themselves in a court case, usually in family or civil proceedings. The McKenzie Friend is not a legal professional, but rather a layperson who can offer practical and emotional support to the unrepresented litigant. The name "McKenzie Friend" comes from a 1970 British court case called McKenzie v. McKenzie, where it was ruled that a friend of the family could accompany an unrepresented litigant to provide assistance during the court proceedings. The McKenzie Friend's role is extensive including offering moral support, taking notes, helping with case papers, and offering general advice. There is no right to address the court directly, or to advocate, without the permission of the court. The concept behind McKenzie Friends is that it is an irrebuttable truth that you don't need to pay for lawyers in the the family court. Lawyers, who all too often engage in thousands of pounds of uneccessary work, stir the pot of hate and acrimony for financial gain and have no professional duty of care for any child. There is no advantage to having a lawyer, a lawyer cannot get you what you want. A McKenzie Friend is a sensible alternative to support you through the process as an informed friend. Please note that all McKenzie Friends listed are independent business entities who operate under their own Terms and Conditions providing their own services