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After passing all of my legal exams and being in active practice (to include running a family department and being Resolution certified for over fifteen years), I was made redundant.

It was not possible to find another job and the last interview I attended had over 75 lawyers applying. Therefore due to the need to make a living and wanting to use the skills I had spent many years and a lot of money training for, I began to work as a McKenzie Friend.

Yes I charge, but I charge a fixed fee typically of around £200.00 for all meetings, preparation, and attendance at the hearing with the client.

At every hearing, I am required to produce a CV detailing my employment history and suitability for the role. In my experience, Judges are grateful to have me there (although I am known) as we can at least deal with the relevant issues to hand. I also hold PI insurance.

An example of one of my recent cases being someone who was in danger of losing a child, The client had suffered from severe ill heath which had limited her ability work leaving no other option but to represent herself. On the other side however, we had the Applicant present with a solicitor, a junior and a barrister. Are you all suggesting she would have been better of without anyone fighting her corner? There is no way she would have been able to afford minimal time with a solicitor let alone a barristers fees.

Whilst I agree that there are some people out there who really shouldn't be, I am tired of the same old arguments, re surgeons etc. If you wish to comment, perhaps you could all undertake a little more research whereupon you will see that there are now a selection of qualified McKenzies out there - typically unemployed lawyers who need to be able to work and all holding PI insurance. We provide a good, competent affordable service to people who would otherwise be left to flounder.