Going to Family Court can feel daunting, particularly when you're representing yourself.

In appropriate cases, NorthQuill may be able to provide McKenzie Friend support, giving you practical assistance and a reassuring presence alongside you during your hearing.

Our aim is simple: to help you feel organised, supported and prepared.

What our support may include

Depending on your circumstances, we can provide:

• Practical support during your hearing
• Note-taking
• Helping you organise and manage your hearing papers
• Helping you keep track of what is happening
• Quiet assistance with your documents and information
• Practical reassurance and support
• Helping you prepare practically for attending Court

Every case is considered individually

McKenzie Friend support is not automatically available for every case.

Before agreeing to provide this service, NorthQuill will consider whether your circumstances are appropriate, whether the support requested falls within our role and whether we are able to provide the service appropriately.

We reserve the right to decline a McKenzie Friend request where we consider it unsuitable or outside the scope of our service.

The Court also has discretion to permit, restrict or refuse McKenzie Friend assistance in a particular case.

1. Our boundaries

NorthQuill does not provide legal advice, legal representation or advocacy.

We do not act as your solicitor or barrister, make legal submissions on your behalf, examine witnesses or make decisions about your case.

You remain responsible for your own case and for anything you say or submit to the Court.

Fees

£80 per hour

Our McKenzie Friend service is charged at £80 per hour.

Half-Day Hearing Support — up to £320

Up to 4 hours of support.

Full-Day Hearing Support — up to £560

Based on a hearing day of 9:00am–4:00pm, providing up to 7 hours of support.

2. Payment

Payment must be made in full in advance to secure your booking.

Although payment is taken in advance, you will only be charged for the time we actually spend providing the service.

If your hearing is:

• Cancelled
• Adjourned
• Shortened
• Finished earlier than expected

we will calculate the final fee based on the time actually spent with you and refund any unused portion of your advance payment.

3. Travel

Travel is charged separately at 55p per mile, calculated on the total journey mileage to and from the Court.

Any applicable parking, tolls or other necessary travel expenses will be discussed with you in advance.

A supportive presence when it matters

You don't have to feel like you're facing the hearing completely alone.

Where appropriate, we'll be there to help you stay organised, calm and prepared.

We hear you. We help you feel ready.

NorthQuill Document Services

Organised Documents. Confident Preparation.

McKenzie Friend support is subject to suitability, availability and the discretion of NorthQuill and the Court.