Code of Conduct
At McKenzie Friend Support Ltd, we’re dedicated to providing professional, ethical and compassionate assistance to individuals representing themselves in family and civil court matters.
Our Code of Conduct outlines the standards we uphold to ensure every client receives fair, respectful, and trustworthy support.
1. Professionalism and Integrity
We act with honesty, transparency, and integrity in everything we do.
Our McKenzie Friends always act in the best interests of clients while maintaining full respect for the court, its officers, and all parties involved.
2. Confidentiality
Confidentiality is at the heart of our work.
All information, conversations, and documents shared with us are treated as strictly confidential and will never be disclosed without your consent or a legal obligation.
3. Role and Limitations
A McKenzie Friend is not a solicitor or barrister and does not have rights of audience or the ability to conduct litigation.
Our role is to:
- Offer moral and practical support
- Help with paperwork, preparation and organisation
- Quietly advise and take notes in court
You, as the client, remain responsible for your case and all decisions made.
4. Competence and Knowledge
We only undertake work within our experience and expertise.
Our team stays up to date with changes in family law and court procedures to ensure you receive accurate, reliable support.
If a matter requires formal legal advice, we’ll always recommend an appropriately qualified professional.
5. Respect and Fairness
We treat everyone — clients, opposing parties, court staff, and judiciary — with courtesy and respect at all times.
We do not tolerate aggression, rudeness, or disrespect. Our focus is always calm, constructive and solution-driven communication.
6. Transparency and Fees
We believe in full transparency from the outset.
All fees, terms of service, and expectations are clearly explained before any work begins.
We never take advantage of a client’s situation — our goal is to empower and support you with confidence and clarity.
7. Duty to the Court
We uphold the dignity and integrity of the court process.
Our McKenzie Friends will never mislead the court, interfere with justice, or act beyond the scope permitted by the judge.
We follow all court directions with professionalism and respect.
8. Complaints and Accountability
We value feedback and take any concerns seriously.
If an issue arises, we aim to resolve it promptly, fairly, and professionally.
Where necessary, clients may be referred to an independent resolution process.