A McKenzie Friend is someone who gives practical support to a person representing themselves in court. You may hear the court refer to someone representing themselves as a litigant in person. You can ask a friend or family member to support you in this role, or you can arrange support with someone who has experience attending hearings.
What can a McKenzie Friend do during a hearing?
Imagine the judge asks about a letter in your court bundle. You recognise the letter, but you’re trying to find the page and listen to the judge’s question at the same time. A McKenzie Friend can help you locate it so you can concentrate on your answer.
They can also take notes and offer quiet guidance. For example, if the judge gives you a date for sending in a document, your McKenzie Friend can note the date while you listen to what the document needs to cover. If there’s a point you wanted to raise, they can quietly remind you before the hearing ends.
Can a McKenzie Friend speak to the judge for me?
You normally speak for yourself, answer the judge’s questions and decide what you want to say. A McKenzie Friend has no automatic right to address the judge, present arguments or question witnesses on your behalf. The court would have to grant specific permission for them to do so.
If what you need is someone to present your case for you, it’s worth discussing representation with a solicitor or barrister before your hearing.
Do I need to tell the court I’m bringing a McKenzie Friend?
Yes. Let the court know as early as possible who you would like to bring. People representing themselves are generally entitled to reasonable assistance, although the judge can limit or refuse that assistance in a particular case. If your hearing is private, the judge may ask why you would like the person to attend.
How TW Paralegal can help
TW Paralegal offers McKenzie Friend support for people representing themselves at civil and family hearings. If you’d like support, tell us your hearing date, which court you’re attending and what would help you most on the day. We’ll confirm our availability and explain the support we can provide.
