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Overview
A Lay Assistant can support you in court by helping you take notes. Sometimes this role is called a McKenzie Friend. They usually don’t talk to anyone other than you. A Lay Assistant isn’t usually a qualified lawyer. For example, you might ask a friend who knows a lot about the Family Court because they have been to court.
How to apply
Understand what you need
The person you want to bring to court as a lay assistant must fill in the Undertakings by proposed lay assistant form.
Complete an application form
You’ll need to fill in the following form.
Apply to appoint lay assistant form [PDF, 6 KB]
To have the forms sent to you, freephone 0800 224 733. You can also pick them up from the court.
You must print the forms single sided.
Get all your documents together
Your application must include:
- a completed and signed Apply to appoint lay assistant form
- a completed and signed Undertakings by proposed lay assistant form.
File your application
You can file your application electronically, by post, or in person. When you file your application, it must have the original signatures. You must file your application at the correct courthouse. If you file your application in person or by post, you’ll need to provide enough exact copies for everyone named as a party to your application and keep a copy for yourself.
Court staff will contact you if they need more information.
Explore more in this section
Feeling overwhelmed?
Going to Family Court can be hard. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. There are services available to help and support through this time.
Visit our help page