The Problem with McKenzie Friends - and How to Find a Good One
- Falsely Accused Network
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
By the Falsely Accused Network
Since setting up the Falsely Accused Network, I’ve had to deal with a wide range of McKenzie Friends — and I’ll be honest, it’s been a mixed bag. Some have been helpful. But too many have claimed to be competent, organised, and knowledgeable, only for the reality to fall far short.
The Harsh Truth
The first issue I’ve encountered is the false confidence some McKenzie Friends give off. They present well, say all the right things, and sound like they know the law — until you look closer. Under scrutiny, their knowledge is shaky, their paperwork sloppy, and their advice risky at best. In family court, that’s not just frustrating — it can be disastrous.
Then there’s the disorganisation. I’ve heard of McKenzie Friends turn up to court unprepared, take on cases outside of their expertise, lose track of documents, and confuse deadlines. That kind of chaos doesn’t just make life harder for you — it undermines your case. When someone’s meant to support you through one of the most stressful moments of your life, basic organisation is not a luxury. It’s essential.
And let’s not ignore the cost. Some McKenzie Friends charge rates that come close to what you'd expect from a solicitor — without the professional training or accountability. A few I’ve met seem to be in it just for the money, taking on far too many clients and spreading themselves so thin that the quality of help quickly collapses.
So, Are There Any Good Ones?
Yes — but they’re rare. In all my dealings, there have only been a small handful of McKenzie Friends I’ve come across who’ve been consistently reliable, competent, and professional enough to refer people to. That alone should tell you how low the bar is — and how careful you need to be.
How to Choose a Good McKenzie Friend
If you’re considering using a McKenzie Friend, here are three practical ways to help you make a better choice:
1. Word of Mouth (But Don’t Stop There)
If someone you trust has used a McKenzie Friend and had a good experience, that’s a decent start. But don’t treat it as gospel. Ask questions. Find out what they actually did, how reliable they were, and whether their advice held up under pressure.
2. Check Their Working Hours
This one might sound strange, but it’s telling. If a McKenzie Friend only works limited hours — say, weekday mornings or a couple of evenings a week — they’ll probably have to overload themselves with clients to make a living. When that happens, the quality of support they offer tends to drop. You want someone who’s accessible and has the capacity to focus on your case properly.
3. Trust Your Instincts
If it feels off, it probably is. Are they hard to reach? Do they cancel or reschedule a lot? Does their work feel rushed or sloppy? You don’t have to put up with poor service. You’re allowed to ask questions, challenge things, or walk away. Just because they’re not a solicitor doesn’t mean they should be held to a lower standard — especially if you’re paying them.
Need Help Finding One?
The Falsely Accused Network has built a small, trusted pool of McKenzie Friends who we can refer people to. Some are professional paralegals, others are experienced laypeople who know the system well — but all have been vetted, and we monitor feedback. If you're struggling and need support in court, we’re here to help you find the right person for your case.
You can contact us at:
📞 0204 538 8788
Comments