What is a Professional McKenzie Friend
Understanding Professional McKenzie Friends — and How The Support Path Can Help You Navigate Court with Confidence
Facing a court hearing without a solicitor can feel overwhelming — emotionally, practically, and financially. Many people in family law or civil cases choose to represent themselves, often because legal fees are unaffordable or because they want direct control over their case. This is where a McKenzie Friend can make a real difference.
What Is a Professional McKenzie Friend?
A Professional McKenzie Friend is someone who supports a litigant in person (a person without legal representation) during court proceedings. The role was established by the landmark case McKenzie v McKenzie (1970), and today it is a recognised and protected right in courts across England and Wales. A Professional McKenzie Friend has experience in family law generally with Legal training or experience working within Family Law. At the Support Path, Karen has trained with CILEx (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) and worked as a Family Law Executive for over 25 years in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Starting her career at Heptonstalls in Goole and working with other leading solicitors such as Pepperells, Williamsons and Sills & Betteridge. Karen now wishes to share her professional experience and knowledge with Litigant in Persons, someone who is representing themselves within their proceedings.
What a McKenzie Friend Can Do
- Offer emotional reassurance during a stressful process
- Help you prepare paperwork and organise your evidence
- Take notes in court
- Give quiet advice and reminders during the hearing
- Help you understand court procedures and what to expect
What a McKenzie Friend Cannot Do (Unless the Judge Allows It)
They cannot:
- Speak on your behalf
- Cross-examine witnesses
- Act as your legal representative
- Sign or file documents for you
Why People Choose to Work With McKenzie Friends
For many, the benefits are significant:
- Cost-effective: Far cheaper than traditional legal representation
- Flexible: Support tailored to your needs
- Empowering: Helps you present your case confidently
- Human connection: Especially important in emotional cases like family law
How The Support Path Helps You Through Your Legal Journey
The Support Path is designed to bridge the gap between representing yourself and feeling completely alone in the process. We provide access to clear, compassionate, and professional support—helping you navigate the legal system with confidence.
1. Experienced and Reliable Support
Our team understands the pressures of court, especially in family matters like:
- Child arrangements
- Divorce proceedings
- Domestic abuse applications
- Financial hearings
2. Clear, Plain-English Explanation of the Process
We break down:
- What your hearing involves
- What documents you need
- What the judge will consider
- How to prepare your evidence effectively
3. Affordable, Predictable Pricing
Transparent, accessible support at a fraction of solicitor costs.
4. Emotional and Practical Support
Court isn’t just legal — it’s personal. We offer:
- Emotional reassurance
- Guidance on communicating confidently
- Help managing stress during proceedings
5. Preparation Is Our Priority
We help with:
- Position statements
- Chronologies
- Evidence bundles
- Court forms
- Communication strategies
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Drafting a will
Why Choose The Support Path?
The Support Path combines compassion with professionalism. We empower you to present your case clearly and confidently with support at every step.
Need Support? We’re Here to Help.
If you're preparing for a court hearing and feel overwhelmed, a McKenzie Friend from The Support Path could make your journey significantly easier.
