• Child Custody Matters And Divorce Financial Solutions

• McKenzie Friend And Family Court Advice – Professional, Low-Cost Support for Family Court Hearings.

Helping families with the struggle to obtain solicitors due to the costs. 

Christopher James- Coutanche McKenzie's friend support team

Introduction

"Drawing on more than 30 years of distinguished experience, I achieved a landmark victory before the Supreme Court on issues relating to the voice of the child, contributing to significant developments in the consideration of children's wishes and feelings within family proceedings."

The objective

Empowering and guiding you with the most complex child custody matters, across both Public Law and Private Law family court proceedings, I am an accomplished and highly experienced McKenzie Friend providing structured, knowledgeable, and professional assistance throughout every stage of the court process.

I deliver clear, consistent, and practical guidance in all areas of case preparation and courtroom support in Child Custody matters, assisting both mothers and fathers in navigating complex welfare and safeguarding issues. My extensive understanding of how the courts determine a child's living arrangements—and the challenges each parent may face—ensures that clients are always strategically and thoroughly prepared.

The importance of experience 

Experience matters, especially when facing an opposing legal team, as small mistakes can carry significant consequences. I have a proven track record of success at every level of the Family Court system, including the High Court and the Supreme Court. I provide expert, informed guidance without the high costs of traditional legal representation, offering you the benefit of experience and support comparable to that of any solicitor.

Highly Experienced McKenzie Friend –With Over 30 Years of Family Court Expertise in Complex Child Custody Cases, Help In All Family Courts, Including The Supreme Court, with Achievements in Case law.

The free advice line is open until 5 pm, or use the contact form to request a callback 

📧 Email: press Contact us

📞 Call: 07878 896044 or prefer WhatsApp, Wifi calling.  

✅ Free Initial Consultation – Let's discuss how I can help you.
✅ Avoid Costly Mistakes – Get the right guidance from the start.
✅ Affordable Alternative to Solicitors – Expert support without the high fees.

Help with Court Fees is available 

🔹 Assistance before mediation to help you save on legal costs.
🔹 In some cases, free legal support is available for domestic abuse hearings.

Why this service works so well

As one of the most knowledgeable and experienced McKenzie Friends in the UK, I have contributed to remarkable judgments. [See below] and helped litigants in over 5000 cases.

I have helped countless parents navigate complex family law cases, including those requiring expert evidence and cross-examination of reports. My role is to support your case at every stage, ensuring you are well-prepared and confident in hearings.

I understand the family courts at every level and can help you challenge obstacles, overcome difficulties, and work toward a resolution."

I fully understand the interpretation of expert evidence in the family courts, including Drug and Alcohol testing and psychological assessments, and how this plays a crucial role in cases involving complex issues such as child welfare, parental capacity, domestic abuse, and financial disputes. If the court relies on expert reports and testimony to make informed decisions, there are strict rules governing this.

When Is a Part 25 Application Required?

You must make a Part 25 application whenever you want:

• A new expert to be instructed

• Permission to rely on an existing expert report not already authorised

• A specialist assessment that counts as expert evidence (e.g., psychological, psychiatric, cognitive, risk assessment, medical opinion, DNA testing beyond basic identity testing, ISWs in some cases)

As one of the most knowledgeable and experienced McKenzie Friends in the UK, I have played a pivotal role in contributing to remarkable judgments throughout my career. With expertise gained through assisting litigants across more than 5000 cases, my commitment to providing essential support in legal matters is unwavering

Impactful Contributions

My involvement in numerous cases has been marked by a dedication to ensuring that individuals navigating the complexities of the legal system receive the guidance and support they need. The insights gained from my experiences have not only benefited clients but have also influenced the outcomes of various legal proceedings.

• Expertise in family law and civil matters
• Support in preparing the necessary documentation
• Guidance on court procedures and protocols

By fostering an environment of trust and open communication, I ensure that each litigant feels empowered in their legal journey.

For more information on the services provided, please visit our website.

Finding of fact hearings 

Working towards realistic outcomes in the Family Court—without the high costs of legal representation. Whether you're facing disputes over child contact or Findings of Fact hearings, I provide expert support to help you re-establish contact in a safe and structured environment after separation. and attending your court hearing when required.

How with the following cases

✅ Child Arrangements Child Custody                                                                                               

Guidance on Child Custody & Contact Disputes

A Child Arrangements Order (CAO) is a court order that determines where a child will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and how they will communicate with both parents. It is issued under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989 and focuses on the child's best interests.

What Does a Child Arrangements Order Cover?

✅ Live With Order (Custody) – Decide which parent the child will live with. Prohibited steps and specific issues order 

• Disputed issues over medical care
• prevent an action by one parent
• Schooling disputes (deciding which school a child should attend)

✅ Spend Time With Order (Contact) – Determines how the child spends time with the non-resident parent, including:

• Direct contact (face-to-face visits, overnight stays).
• Indirect contact (phone calls, video calls, letters).
  ✅ Shared Care Arrangements – When a child spends significant time with both parents.
  ✅ Supervised Contact – If there are concerns about the child's safety, contact may take place in a supervised setting. Help you with contact centre referral.

✅ Finding of Fact Hearings 

A Finding of Fact hearing is a crucial stage in family law proceedings, particularly in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse, coercive control, or other significant disputes that could impact child arrangements. The court uses this hearing to determine whether specific allegations are true before making decisions about child contact, residence, or protective measures.

When is a Finding of Fact Hearing Needed?

A Finding of Fact hearing may be ordered when:
✅ One party makes allegations of domestic abuse, violence, or harm.
✅ There is a dispute over significant events that could impact a child's welfare.
✅ The court needs to establish the truth before proceeding with child arrangement orders.

A Non-Molestation Order prohibits the respondent (the person the order is made against) from:
✅ Using or threatening violence against the applicant.
✅ Harassing, intimidating, or pestering the applicant.
✅ Contacting the applicant directly or indirectly.
✅ Coming near the applicant's home or workplace.

The order can be tailored to specific circumstances and can apply to spouses, ex-partners, cohabitants, family members, or anyone with a close relationship with the applicant

I can help you with the preparation stages and also help you obtain free services within the family courts system when you cannot obtain legal aid in court proceedings for example in cases of cross-examination, this process needs to be explained on how to use the practice directions available to you to save you thousands and also give you some fairness on how your case is conducted.

✅ Hague Convention & International Child Abduction Cases 

Hague Convention & International Child Abduction Cases

Expert Guidance in Complex Cross-Border Disputes

International child abduction occurs when a child is taken or retained outside of the country in violation of the other parent's rights of custody or access. The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a key international treaty designed to protect children from wrongful abduction across international borders. see also the end of this page.

✅ Divorce & Financial Matters – Assistance in financial settlements and proceedings.

Divorce & Financial Matters

Expert Assistance in Financial Settlements & Proceedings

Divorce can be a stressful and complex process, particularly when it comes to financial settlements. Whether you are negotiating a fair division of assets or dealing with financial disputes, understanding your rights and options is crucial.

Key Financial Considerations in Divorce

✅ Division of Assets – Including property, savings, pensions, and investments.
✅ Spousal Maintenance – Whether one party should receive financial support post-divorce.
✅ Child Maintenance – Ensuring financial stability for children after separation AND Cms disputed issues.
✅ Business & High-Value Assets – Protecting or fairly distributing business interests and significant financial holdings.
✅ Debts & Liabilities – Determining responsibility for joint debts

✅ Jurisdiction & Relocation Cases – Guidance on moving with children domestically or internationally. Expert Guidance on Moving with Children Domestically or Internationally

Relocating with a child after separation can be legally complex, whether you're moving within the UK or abroad. The court prioritizes the child's best interests, and permission may be required if the other parent does not agree to the move.

Key Considerations in Relocation Cases

✅ Domestic Relocation – Moving within the UK can still be challenged if it significantly affects child arrangements.
✅ International Relocation – Requires permission from the other parent or the court, particularly if the move impacts the child's relationship with the non-resident parent.
✅ Child's Welfare & Stability – The court assesses how the move will benefit or disrupt the child's life, including education, healthcare, and family connections.
✅ Parental Motivation & Practical Plans – Courts examine the relocating parent's reasons and the feasibility of maintaining contact with the non-resident parent.

What is the Hague Convention?

The Hague Convention is an agreement between various countries that ensures children who are wrongfully taken or retained across borders can be returned to their habitual residence. The goal is to prevent international child abduction and resolve disputes regarding custody or access swiftly.

• Scope – The Hague Convention applies only to countries that have signed and ratified the treaty.

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Remarkable Achievements In Complex Supreme Court Case 

This case set in a judgement in law and is outstanding for a Mckenzie friend to be given such recognition.  

Known as a well-established Supreme Court case in London (2012) known as The Voice of a Child—now established as case law—I am dedicated to strengthening children's rights in family proceedings. This landmark case highlights the importance of making informed choices when seeking legal support, ensuring that your efforts and resources are directed where they matter most.

One key consideration I have explored over the years is whether it is always necessary to have someone physically present with you in court or if certain matters can be effectively managed in other ways. By strategically allocating resources, you can preserve funds for more significant hearings where legal support is most crucial.

How your costs can be reduced significantly

I provide comprehensive pre-hearing support, helping you clarify your case strategy and potentially reducing the need for my attendance—saving you money. However, for complex cases or difficult decisions, my presence in court can be invaluable, and we can discuss costs accordingly.

If you need an experienced and highly recommended McKenzie Friend to support you in your Family Court case, get in touch today.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: 07878 896044
📧 Email: mckenziefriendteamhelpline@gmail.com

Preparation stages help you to litigate your case 

✔ Case Preparation – Helping you build a strong case before your hearing.
✔ Court Support – Attending hearings with you to provide guidance.
✔ Free Telephone Support – Available before your hearings as an alternative to in-person assistance.
✔ Help with Free Legal Support – Assistance in obtaining free legal aid for non-molestation and finding of fact cases.
✔ Cost-Effective Solutions – Achieving the best outcome while keeping your expenses minimal.
✔ Strategic Case Analysis – Unlike other services, I assess the implications of your case before attending hearings, ensuring the most effective approach within your financial budget.

Cost-effective solutions that save you money and why some services will just look for financial gain.  

For example, some hearings are not always going to achieve much unless by consent, and this is costly for you, I will look to avoid this and unlike other services protect your funds for more substantial matters, so we have recently introduced telephone support from court to help save on costs, this works when you're in negotiations before the court hearing and need that assurance on decisions.

 Hague Convention cases

The rules on McKenzie friends is set out below 

https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/JCO/Documents/Guidance/mckenzie-friends-practice-guidance-july-2010.pdf</p>