You Don’t Have to Face Family Court Alone

Going through family court can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re doing it without a solicitor. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Our McKenzie Friend service is here to walk beside you, offering practical help, emotional support, and guidance through what can feel like a legal maze.

What Is a McKenzie Friend?

A McKenzie Friend is someone who can support you during civil legal proceedings—like family court—if you don’t have a solicitor or barrister.

They are not lawyers and can’t speak on your behalf in court, but they can:

• Help you prepare for hearings
• Explain what’s happening
• Keep your documents organised
• Offer emotional support throughout the process

Anyone can technically act as a McKenzie Friend, but our service offers trained professionals with expertise in supporting people through trauma and complex legal situations.

How Can a McKenzie Friend Help?

We can support you with:

• Child Contact Arrangements
  Guidance on preparing for hearings, understanding your options, and drafting documents.
• Protective Orders
  Support with applying for civil protective orders—like non-molestation or occupation orders—if you’re experiencing abuse.
• Document Preparation
  Help with writing court statements in your own words, organising documents, and understanding what you need to submit.
• Understanding the Court Process
  Family court language can be confusing. We’ll help you understand what to expect at each step.
• Special Measures in Court
  If you’ve experienced abuse, we can support you in applying for measures like separate waiting areas, screens, or video links so you don’t have to face your abuser.
• Emotional Support
  Sometimes, what you need most is someone to talk to. We’re here to listen and help you feel more confident and calm.

Why This Support Matters

Many people can’t afford a solicitor—or choose to represent themselves. But that doesn’t mean they should have to go through the process alone.

Family court is full of legal jargon, tight deadlines, and emotionally difficult situations. A McKenzie Friend helps you:

• Stay calm and focused
• Avoid missing key paperwork or steps
• Feel supported, not isolated

This is especially vital for survivors of domestic or sexual abuse, who may experience trauma triggers during court proceedings. Our team understands these challenges and will support you with compassion and care.

Do I Need a Solicitor to Go to Family Court?

No. You have the right to represent yourself, and you’re entitled to bring a McKenzie Friend with you.

If you do have a solicitor, we can still provide emotional support, especially outside court or between hearings.

What Makes Our Service Different?

While a solicitor focuses on legal arguments, we combine practical guidance with emotional care. We know how stressful court can be, and we’re here not just to get your paperwork in order, but to:

• Reassure you
• Help you feel informed
• Support you through every step

No judgment. Just care, support, and someone by your side.

If you’re facing family court and feeling uncertain, reach out. Our McKenzie Friend service is here to help you feel less alone and more empowered.