Mackenzie friend scotland

Hi all

having been through a long court case 5 years ago to prove I was a fit and able mother to my child, me ex was adamant to prove that I wasn't so he would win residence and thus not have to pay maintenance. I find myself having to redefend myself through the court system, my ex is a company director who is on jobseekers allowance so gets legal Aid, I have no savings a meagre income of £3500 per annum and no capital yet because I married and my new husband sold his flat so we could live togethor I do not get any Legal Aid help due to hubbys capital. Just had first invoice from solicitor for £3500 and I cant afford to pay it. Just wondering if anyone has any knowledge of using a McKenzie friend in Scotland, how do I locate one and what sort of cost is involved. Please someone help as I am so stressed and being 6 months pregnant cant take much more at moment

Officially there is currently no provision to allow McKenzie Friends in Scottish courts (see www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/petitions/docs/PE1247.htm and Lord Gill's review of civil justice at Scottish Courts website) although unofficially an individual judge may allow a lay person to attend court.

Have a look at this article -
petercherbi.wordpress.com/2009/11/26/fir...c-access-to-justice/

trance,

I am so sorry to hear of your plight. I am not up to date with current SLAB rules and procedures however they have been known to make mistakes. Is the capital you refer to readily available? I am presuming not so, in that you are unable to pay sols invoice (which has been audited? )

I have pmed you regards MF.

E