A McKenzie Friend is someone who accompanies you to court and helps you prepare when you cannot afford - or do not want - a solicitor. Finding a good one takes about an hour of checking: the market is unregulated, so verification is your job.
In order of reliability: 1) Family-court support charities and volunteer schemes (Family Lives, Partners of Prisoners-style local services, law school clinics); 2) Your support network - a calm, organised friend often beats a stranger; 3) Professional directories, where you can filter for insurance, DBS status and fee transparency.
Professional indemnity insurance (ask for proof). 2) A written fee schedule including hearing days and prep time. 3) References from litigants in person, not just testimonials. 4) Realistic scope - they should describe note-taking and preparation, not 'winning your case'. 5) No pressure tactics - anyone selling guaranteed outcomes or asking for large upfront cash is a red flag.
A good one is: they keep your bundle ordered, prompt you on what to say, and reduce hearing-day panic. A bad one is worse than none - some advisors overreach, give legal 'advice' they are not qualified to give, or inflame proceedings. Worth depends entirely on who you pick.
Market rates for professional (fee-charging) McKenzie Friends commonly run from around £30-£90 per hour, with hearing-day support often quoted as a day rate. Many charge nothing - family members, volunteers and some charities act free.
Can be. A family member or friend can act as one at no cost. Charity and volunteer schemes (including some university law clinics) exist. Professional McKenzie Friends charge, and their rates are not regulated.
If you act professionally, yes - fee-charging McKenzie Friends are permitted following the 2010 Practice Guidance, provided courts grant right of audience where needed and you are transparent about insurance and fees.
Takes notes, helps with documents, quietly advises you during hearings, and provides moral support. They have no automatic right to speak - that is a 'right of audience' the court grants on request, and it is never guaranteed.
The same market rates as above - there is no scale. Always agree fees in writing beforehand, including hearing-day rates, travel and preparation time, and cancellation terms.