McKenzie Friend: Support to Litigants in Person representing themselves

Hylton-Potts - London Based Law Firm Helping People Across the UK since 1999

We offer an ‘Unbundling’ service, where we provide separate items of legal assistance where required, leaving you the client to handle the more routine matters and keep costs well under control. We can offer highly competitive fixed prices for each stage of the case.

The case remains client- led and elements can include advice on law and procedure, drafting documents, consent orders and arranging advocacy with barristers via direct access. You handle the routine correspondence. This is extremely cost-effective.

If representing yourself in court, you have the right to take a supporter into court with called a “McKenzie Friend”
Who can be my McKenzie Friend?

Anybody you want – e.g. a personal friend, a lawyer, a work colleague, or a relative – anybody you wish who you feel will support you.

Should it be a lawyer?

There is no need for them to be a lawyer, but it has a huge advantage, as a lawyer can advise on the law, and procedure and help you focus on the facts. A lawyer will help you be present and argue your case. Many a good case has been lost because of failure to comply with complex court rules, and procedure.
Why do I need a McKenzie Friend?

As one of the parties in a case, you are, by definition, emotionally involved, and have more than a financial stake in the outcome. Emotions can prevent you thinking clearly, listening carefully and understanding what is being said.

Your McKenzie Friend can keep you focused on the facts, help you present and manage your case in the most effective way, and help you feel less alone.

What can my McKenzie Friend do?

Sit beside you in court.

  • Take notes.
  • Suggest questions for you to ask.
  • Keep you focused on your case and what you want to say
  • Be another pair of ears to listen for you.
  • Help you stay less emotional and give factual responses.
  • Help you to ask questions simply and clearly so they are understandable.

AND if you come to Rodney Hylton-Potts, prepare the case for you, and you for the case, in advance.

When do I have to tell the court about my McKenzie Friend?

You simply need to tell the clerk at the beginning of your case that you have a friend who you wish to have sitting beside you.

Where can I find a McKenzie Friend?

You have found him. He is Rodney Hylton-Potts with over 25 years experience of matrimonial litigation cases involving money and children. There is no substitute for experience, coupled with speed, efficiency and cost effectiveness. Rodney did not get his nickname ‘ Rottweiler’ by being touchy-feely.

Contact Rodney by phone 020 7381 8111 or email on [email protected].

Litigants in person can be a good thing.

Judges seek to ensure a “level playing field” and are fearful of appeal if too harsh on a litigant in person.

With our expert help a litigant in person can actually be at an advantage, over a represented litigant.
Cast aside your fears therefore and consult the experts.

Contact Rodney by phone 020 7381 8111 or email on [email protected].