Northern Family Law Support
McKenzie Friend Family Court Support
We provide practical McKenzie Friend support for people representing themselves in family court proceedings. We can sit alongside you in court, provide support and advice during the hearing, take notes, organise your papers and sometimes speak on your behalf when given rights of audience.
We cover all hearings including final hearings and appeal hearings on Children Act, Financial Remedy and Non Molestation proceedings.
We can also help your prepare applications, position statements, witness statements , case summaries, chronologies, statement of issues and other court documents,
We mainly support clients across the North East including County Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Gateshead, Teesside and Darlington, but can provide support anywhere in England and Wales.
We offer a free initial 30 minute consultation.
What is a McKenzie Friend?
If you attend court for a hearing and are represented by a solicitor or a barrister, they can speak to the Judge on your behalf. If you attend court for a hearing without a solicitor or barrister, you are known as a litigant in person and need to address the Judge yourself.
A McKenzie Friend is someone who assists a litigant in person in court. They sit alongside you, shoulder to shoulder in the court room. In very limited circumstances they can speak to the Judge on your behalf and exercise what is known as a right of audience. More usually, the role of a McKenzie Friend is to take notes, help you with your paperwork, help you prepare for any questions from the Judge and help you prepare what you want to say to the Judge. During the hearing itself the McKenzie Friend can give you hand written or whispered advice, remind you of points you have forgotten to make to the Judge and generally offer you advice on points of law from a lay person’s perspective.
Litigants in person have the right to receive reasonable assistance from a McKenzie Friend in court. We can assist you as a McKenzie Friend in all family law hearings. It is very unusual for a family court to refuse a litigant in person’s request to have the assistance of a McKenzie Friend.
To get court permission for the use of a McKenzie Friend, on arrival at court you, with the assistance of us as your McKenzie Friend, make a paper application to the court for permission for us to be your McKenzie Friend.
Courts do not usually grant a right of audience or the right to conduct litigation on behalf of a litigant in person to a McKenzie Friend.
The court is only prepared to grant such rights where there is good reason to do so, taking into account all the circumstances of the case, which vary greatly case to case.
Examples of the type of special circumstances which can sway a court to grant a right of audience to a McKenzie Friend, are:
- The McKenzie Friend is a close relative of the litigant in person
- Health problems preclude the litigant in person from addressing the court or conducting litigation
- The litigant in person cannot afford to pay for a qualified legal representative
- The litigant in person is relatively inarticulate and prompting by the McKenzie Friend may unnecessarily prolong the proceedings
It is for the litigant in person to persuade the court that the circumstances of the case are such that it is in the interests of justice for the court to grant a McKenzie Friend a right of audience or a right to conduct litigation.
If a litigant in person wants a McKenzie Friend to be granted a right of audience, an application must be made at the start of the hearing. If a right to conduct litigation is sought such an application must be made at the earliest possible opportunity and must be made, in any event, before the McKenzie Friend does anything which amounts to the conduct of litigation. It is for the litigant in person to persuade the court, on a case-by-case basis, that the granting of such rights is justified.
Rights of audience and the right to conduct litigation are separate rights. If both rights are sought, their granting must be applied for individually and justified separately.
If at any time you want to apply for us to have rights of audience or the right to conduct litigation, we can assist you in making these applications. We mainly support clients across the North East including County Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Gateshead, Teesside and Darlington, but can provide support anywhere in England and Wales
Free initial 30 minute consultation
Where to find us:
Northern FLS Ltd,
11 Orchard Terrace,
Chester le Street,
DH3 3JU
Call Us:
+44 (0)7342 979477
Email Us:
help@northernfamilylawsupport.co.uk
Get in touch
See What Our Clients Say...
Francis Johnson
2 weeks ago
Yvonne Cornell
3 weeks ago
Well where do I begin. This has been the hardest and longest battle that I have every done in my life (financial remedy). What started as hopefully a quick case turned into a year+battle with my ex to be, and I can say honestly with hand on heart if it wasn't for Dave I would never getting though this, not just mentally but actually physically. Dave has been more than my representative, he has been my rock, and when I wanted tothrow the towel in (which was numerous times) Dave give me the encouragement and confidence to go all the way, which we did and won. This man is my absolutely hero and 1 of the nicest people I have had the great opportunity to meet. Thanks again Dave
michael rohan
4 weeks ago
We couldn’t be more grateful for the support and guidance we received from Dave throughout our family court journey. He helped us achieve our goal for our children, and we honestly couldn’t have done it without his guidance.
Communication with Dave was always quick and reassuring, and he guided us through every step of the process in a clear and professional way. What stood out most was how approachable, friendly and supportive he was throughout. He always took the time to explain things, answer our questions and put our minds at ease.
Despite what can be an incredibly stressful and daunting process, we never felt nervous or overwhelmed because we knew Dave was there to guide and support us. His professional yet friendly conduct made such a difficult experience feel much more manageable.
We would wholeheartedly recommend Dave to anyone needing support through family court proceedings. His professionalism, reassurance and genuine commitment made such a positive difference to us and our family.
Thank you, Dave, for helping us achieve the outcome we were hoping for and for being there every step of the way. We truly appreciate everything you did for us.
James Chambers
1 month ago
If you choose Dave you're choosing excellent knowledge, hard work, and dedication to your case.
Thank you for all of the time and effort you put in to making sure i had everything i needed, was prepped, and supported with everything. From paperwork, case planning and court appearances, you were there every step of the way.
Separate to your amazing work, you're a top bloke too.
My result wouldn't have been possible without you, you got me my Boy back and I'll be forever grateful for that!
WE DID IT! 🎉
Thanks Dave.
Joseph Martin
2 months ago
Dave has been absolutely fantastic throughout my case, he acted as a Mackenzie friend and he helped me to have a fantastic outcome at court. He is super professional, knowledgeable, reassuring and quick. He helped me all the way through a very stressful and worrying process and made me feel at ease with the process. I genuinely could not recommend him enough!
Leo Ross
2 months ago
You will not regret choosing Mr. Dave Pickup. He helped my wife and me gain custody of my sister and made the entire process easy to understand and far less stressful. He was always friendly, professional, and genuinely invested in our case. He took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and made us feel supported every step of the way. I can’t recommend him highly enough.
Grant Kirkham
2 months ago
I can honestly say that David does an amazing job, you will not get better.Quick to respond and get things ready.
He doesn’t miss a thing.
Ten stars
Helen Colgin
3 months ago
Efficient, very helpful and would defo use again. Would highly recommend.
Jake
3 months ago
Absolutely brilliant service. From start to finish, Dave has been amazing at sorting everything out and always being there to answer even the smallest of question you may have. Couldn’t have asked for a better person to take my case on and would recommend to anyone
William Grimes
3 months ago
Dave has helped me with a couple of matters now top man top service would highly recommend 👌
Janet Ross
4 months ago
I would never have taken that final step had it not been for Dave's support, understanding and kindness. I trusted him instantly, he dealt with my whole divorce in a very professional and supportive manner, and managed the chaos I always bring to everything I do! From chatting to me in my loft space in August '25 to printing and posting off my final divorce papers in May '26! With his existential experience and knowledge, he guided me through every step and was a constant support whenever I needed. I absolutely recommend his business and would definitely use him again, should I need.
james wilkinson
4 months ago
I first met Dave 15 months ago ,when my Son asked for help to have more time with with our Grandson.
4years ago our son lost a very complicated Family Court case.
After reading the case files Dave agreed to help him.
From the start Dave showed nothing but understanding and kindness, and was able to guide our son with all his paper work and through the Family Court proceedings that followed ,When in court our son could not manage to speak for himself so Dave was aloud to speak for him. Thanks to Dave our son left court with everything he asked for.
231wilky
5 months ago
Dave supported my family and i through one of the most upsetting and difficult times in my life and frankly without him we would have been lost.
Without Dave’s help i struggle to imagine where we would be today and because of him we got what we were hoping for in our case and more.
Thanks again Dave from the bottom of my heart.
John Lambert
6 months ago
I spoke to several McKenzie friends before deciding to work with Dave. They were all nice people, and no doubt would have been fine. But Dave inspired confidence from the start. His background in legal services as well as his strategic mind from his career meant that I wasn’t just getting advice on process, but on case handling, and he was incredibly good at calming the obviously raw emotion that comes with such a horrid situation. His lived experience is invaluable here. 7 months of a sense of complete injustice in the courts, but with Dave’s help, I’ve had a great result. Cannot ever thank him enough.
Anna Rozario (Laksmi Nrisimha Priya IDS)
7 months ago
I’m so happy with Dave helping me not only with my divorce but also with a formal complaint about my former solicitor TBI law who behaved in very unprofessional manner. Looking forward to work with him again. Dave you’re a star!
Seb22Ref
8 months ago
Dave was easy to contact using his website and responded in a prompt and professional manner.
He was able to come out to visit for appointments which was great to have that flexibility and was clear in what was required for the consent order to be completed.
He was patient and professional through out the process that had a few delays and obstacles.
Overall it was a positive experience in difficult circumstances and certainly would recommend using him for anything regarding divorce and finances.
lucy brown
11 months ago
Dave is truly one of the most honest, kind and helpful men I have ever had the privilege of meeting. From our first contact I was constantly reassured, informed and supported by Dave. Dave was entirely sympathetic to my situation and offered exceptional support to myself and my sister. I was completely uneducated in the process of legal proceedings and how to move forward. Dave was more than understanding of this and ensured I was never left in the dark or confused. His level of professionalism demonstrated whilst making the entire experience comfortable and more manageable was outstanding. Having Dave as a support both as a professional and a friend is something myself and sister will never forget. We truly cannot recommend his services enough. Thank you Dave
Gillian Richardson
11 months ago
I simply cannot thank David enough for all of his support
Response from the owner
Hi Gillian It is my absolute pleasure to support you on your case. Step by step we will get there! Kind Regards Dave11 months ago
Megan Hastie
11 months ago
Response from the owner
Hi Megan thank you for your review. Very much looking forward to supporting you on your case in the future. Kind Regards Dave11 months ago
Andrew Baker
12 months ago
Firstly this is an honest and true review as always, what can I say but this I am truly honored and privileged to have met Dave at Northern Family law he is the most genuine honest guy and from day 1 he has had my best interests at heart his knowledge of family law is absolutely outstanding but moreover he is a compassionate and caring person who will give you his honest verdict I can’t recommend him highly enough all I can say is this if you are ever in a situation where you need this kind of help and guidance look no further than Dave at northern Family law he is the best by far
Response from the owner
Hi Andrew thank you so much for sharing this and for such kind feedback. Having been through divorce myself twice before, I know what people are feeling and going through, and helping people through their situation, on every step of the journey, to get to a better place, is what motivates me and drives me. 12 months ago
Nick
1 year ago
I instructed David because of other reviews and I was not disappointed. The quality of his applications, written statements and analysis was incredible. I have used family solicitors before and David is just better. The one thing I was nervous about was speaking in court as he is a Mckenzie Friend so cant speak for me. I should not have worried. For each of my three hearings he worked with me to prepare a verbal summary to read to the judge. In court I answered the judges questions about things only I knew the answer to , but when legal questions came up I was able to ask Dave how to respond. The judges are fine with this. I cannot recommend David enough. Thank you for everything
Response from the owner
Hi Nick I was very proud of how you spoke in court. Your confidence grew hearing by hearing. The family court is nothing like the criminal courts or how courts appear on TV as you discovered. it is much more supportive; no gowns or wigs! The Judge was patient with you, listened to you, and gave you time to speak to me in court when you needed help. What really worked too was that you were in control of what you said to the Judge but your ex wasn't. She used a solicitor who made several factual mistakes and one major gaff and you ex could do nothing about it as she had representation so could not speak in court to correct the solicitor. We got a great outcome and it was a real pleasure working with you. Stay in touch but I hope that we never have to meet again in a professional capacity!1 year ago
Ailsa Judd
1 year ago
Dave is a brilliant support. He really takes the time to get to know every detail needed and provides extensive knowledge. Not only is his guidance excellent but he's also a great moral support. I would recommend him to everyone going through the family court process.
Response from the owner
Hi Ailsa It was a pleasure working with you and supporting you over the last few months. You were great to work with and were fantastic in court. So glad we got to a good place and a good outcome for you. 1 year ago
Lisbeth Hooker
1 year ago
Would highly recommend David, he helped with child arrangement order, he is brilliant at what he does, thank you so much
Response from the owner
thank you so much Lisbeth. I am just really pleased that you got the outcome that is in the best interests of your family. Thank you for choosing to work with us and thank you for your recommendation. All the Best Dave 1 year ago
Christine Talbot
1 year ago
Dave helped me with a DV case. He was personable, knowledgeable and helpful. He gave me confidence in court and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him. Will definitely being using him again moving forward. Thanks again.
Response from the owner
Hi Christine it was lovely meeting you and I am glad you felt confident with me alongside too. You were fantastic in court, and I am glad we will be working together in the future as and when you need me. Thank you once again. Best Regards Dave1 year ago
Hannah Laverick
1 year ago
Dave was very helpful and informative from the start! He made me feel at ease with my the process and kept me up to date with everything! He replies are very quick - which does help when your feeling anxious
Thank you Dave for your everything
Response from the owner
Hi Hannah thank you for such a kind review. We do our best to be accessible and reply quickly. If you need us we are there as you know, whatever time or whatever day. It is a pleasure helping you and continuing to help you.1 year ago
Jack Kershaw
1 year ago
I am beyond thrilled with my experience with Dave at Northern Family Law Support. With a divorce, I looked at options with solicitors and was dumbstruck and beaten by the fee's they were asking. In reality, i didn't need a solicitor, I needed a legal advisor to hold my hand through the whole process and tell me what to do. This isn't a service I could find anywhere else is my area?
Dave was incredibly reassuring and supportive throughout the whole process, especially me being on the autistic spectrum I struggled a lot with what to do. He listened to my story and advised me on the best way to proceed with my case. Me, my daughter and my family are incredible grateful for his help!
All this, and he is only a fraction of the cost of what a solicitor would have cost me. He is a legend and I will definitely recommend his services.
Response from the owner
Hi Jack thank you for your feedback and such kind words. It was a pleasure and a privilege to both meet you and your family and help you navigate through your case, and to achieve the right outcome for you and your family. All the very Best Dave Northern Family Law Support 1 year ago
Jessica Highmoor-Broughton
1 year ago
Highly recommend, Dave has been a huge support to my auntie and has made what felt like a really complex process simple. He takes the time to listen and understand and has been excellent and keeping in touch with both myself and my auntie as I support her through this process. Thank you Dave
Response from the owner
Hi Jessica thank you for these words. It was a real pleasure to meet your Auntie and help guide her through this work, and I will of course be keeping a close eye on matters through to their conclusion. All the very best David Northern Family Law Support 1 year ago
Alexandra Curtis
1 year ago
If I could add more stars I would! 5 is simply not enough , Dave is very supportive listens to everything and makes the whole process of court smooth and straight forward I felt in safe hands , he is very intelligent and knowledgeable! Knows what he is talking about , he is just brilliant , 1000 percent recommend and will only use Dave moving forward
Response from the owner
Hi Alex. Thank you so much for these lovely words. We achieved a lot in the last 24 hours and it has been a pleasure working with you and seeing such good progress on your case. All the very best. Dave 1 year ago
Rebecca Parker
2 years ago
From first speaking to Dave I knew we had made the right choice as a family for the best support throughout family court. Dave listens, writes and understands extremely well and is always very professional in all aspects. Dave was always there for reassurance and made a difference to our lives and helped guide us through one of the most difficult times. We cannot recommend him enough! If you need support and reassurance northern family law is the support you need. Thankyou for everything ❤️
Response from the owner
Hi Rebecca Thank you so much for your lovely message. It has been a real pleasure supporting you and your family over the last 6 months and getting to know you all on this journey. I am just so pleased for you all that you got the right outcome too in what were very complex proceedings. Thank you for choosing us and thank you for recommending us. All the best for you and your family in the future. Dave 2 years ago
jon rackham
2 years ago
Absolutely brilliant service provided by David from start to finish every stage was explained in layman's terms helping to get through a particularly stressful situation very professional and also very affable
Response from the owner
Hi Jon. Thank you so much for your message. Delighted to work with you and help you through this. All the Best Dave2 years ago
Barry Round
2 years ago
Dave is an extremely knowledgeable guy.
He is very friendly and supportive, a good listener and also really good at bringing valid points to the table.
He is much cheaper than solicitors, I cannot recommend him enough.
Response from the owner
Hi Barry Thank you so much for your review. It is a pleasure working with you and your family on your case and I look forward to supporting you in reaching a conclusion. All the Best Dave2 years ago
Rebecca Elizabeth
2 years ago
Response from the owner
Thank you Rebecca. Have a lovely Christmas and New Year with your family and we will catch up in the New Year. All the Best Dave2 years ago
Damian
2 years ago
Dave sorted me out a really good deal on my divorce. He supported me in the negotiations , helped me do the form E and then all the papers at the end to send to through to the judge to get a final consent order.
Response from the owner
Hi Damian. Thank you for the feedback. Glad you were pleased with the outcome! 2 years ago
Meg
2 years ago
David helped me out when I needed to get a Child Arrangements Order when I moved to a different part of the country. Me and my ex could not agree on a plan so he made the application for me, went to court with me and helped secure a new contact arrangement for me and my child.
Response from the owner
Hi Meg. Thanks for you review. It was a challenging case and one where I am delighted you got the outcome you wanted. 2 years ago
Jennie Pope
2 years ago
David helped me resolve a very complicated situation involving an international element. He is really good at problem solving and working out what to do in complex situations. Cant recommend him highly enough !
Response from the owner
Thanks Jennie. Pleasure helping you on this. 2 years ago
Yuliya Petrychenko
2 years ago
Dave is amazing. His knowledge of family law is vast. He is friendly, a good listener, writes really well and is able to work out the really important points to bring to the judge. He is much cheaper then solicitors. I would not hesitate to recommend him.
Isa Bella
2 years ago
Dave was amazing and supportive. He has vast expertise and is very knowledgeable. While my world was falling apart, Dave was with me all the way. He is so caring. He helped me with domestic abuse, my divorce, finances and child custody issues. I totally recommend him.
I
2 years ago
Provided an excellent and affordable service to make my divorce application and also helped me sort out child custody
Louise A
2 years ago
I was in an abusive relationship. I was quoted thousands of pounds by a firm of solicitors to go to court to try and get protection. I couldnt afford this. David did the work with me for much less. He wrote the application with me, wrote my witness statement with me and came to court with me. I got the protection I needed. Recommend him. He is very understanding, friendly and writes very well. I could not have done this without him. Thank you !