A McKenzie Friend is someone who supports a person representing themselves in court, usually in family law cases (such as divorce or child arrangements), but without being a lawyer or having to be legally qualified.

What a McKenzie Friend can do:

Sit with you in court

Take notes

Help you organize documents

Quietly give you advice and suggestions during the hearing

Support you emotionally and practically

Draft and complete statements

Give advice on what to expect throughout the length of your case

Things a McKenzie Friend cannot do:

Speak to the judge on your behalf (unless given permission)

Sign legal documents for you

Act as your legal representative or "conduct litigation"

Why people use McKenzie Friends:

Affordability: Legal representation can be expensive. McKenzie Friends offer lower-cost support.

Support: They provide guidance through stressful and unfamiliar legal processes.

Self-representation: Many people now represent themselves in court due to legal aid cuts, individual finances or personal choice.

McKenzie Friends can be professional or voluntary . Some have legal training; others offer support based on personal experience or practical knowledge.