If you’re representing yourself in a civil or family court in England and Wales, you can usually ask to have someone with you for support. This person is known as a McKenzie Friend.
What a McKenzie Friend can do
Under the official Practice Guidance on McKenzie Friends, they can generally:
- provide moral support
- take notes during the hearing
- help with your case papers
- quietly give you advice on points of law or procedure, issues you may want to raise, and questions you may want to ask witnesses
What a McKenzie Friend can’t do
A McKenzie Friend is not your legal representative. They generally can’t:
- act as your agent or manage your case for you
- sign court documents on your behalf
- address the court, make submissions or question witnesses
In exceptional cases a judge may allow a McKenzie Friend to speak, but this is the court’s decision and isn’t automatic.
Asking the court
You should tell the court as early as possible, ideally before the hearing, that you’d like a McKenzie Friend. It helps to give their name and a short note about who they are. The judge can refuse or limit their involvement, for example if it isn’t in the interests of justice. A McKenzie Friend must also keep information about your case confidential.
How we can help
We provide McKenzie Friend support where the court permits it, alongside practical help with your papers and court bundles. If your matter needs legal advice or representation, you should speak to a solicitor or another appropriately authorised professional.
