Maria Lopez
LLB (Hons)
Lawyer - McKenzie Friend
Director of Court Support & Legal Services Ltd
About Me
I am the Director of Court Support & Legal Services Ltd and work in the capacity of a Lawyer - McKenzie Friend, assisting litigants in person in Family and Civil Court proceedings. I am a member of Resolution, an organisation promoting non-confrontational dispute resolution, and I encourage a calm, constructive and solution-focused approach to proceedings. Where the court process requires stronger action, I support you with clear planning, preparation and evidence so that you can present your case confidently.
I hold an LLB (Hons) from Staffordshire University (2017) and am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office.
My legal experience is both professional and personal, I began my career as a paralegal within a family law practice, and I have also experienced the Family Court system myself, which gives me additional insight into the emotional and procedural pressures clients face.
How I Support You
I assist with preparation of case this including but not limited to assist with preparation of documentation, statements, forms, evidence bundles and written submissions. I help you plan how you will present your case, and I guide you through the stages of the court process. I can also accompany you to hearings, offering quiet advice and reassurance throughout, where permitted.
My role is supportive, structured and practical, you remain in control of your case, and my work helps you prepare clearly and effectively.
Typical Areas I Assist With
Family Law
• Divorce and Separation
• Financial remedy
• Children matters (contact, residence, parental responsibility, child protection)
• Injunctions and domestic abuse
Civil Disputes
• Contractual or personal disputes
• Small claims support
• Negotiation and pre-action preparation
Wills
• Will drafting and guidance
How I Help You With Your Case
If you are involved in a dispute over arrangements for children, divorce, contact, property or general civil conflict, I can support you in navigating the process and preparing what you need for court. I will ask you to outline your situation, after which I can advise what steps and documents may be appropriate.
I assist litigants in person by:
• Helping prepare Family and Civil Court documents
• Drafting statements, witness evidence & supporting documents
• Preparing opening notes, written submissions & closing summaries
• Preparing structured notes for verbal submissions at hearings
• Supporting evidence testing, fact-finding preparation & hearings
• Assistance with trial bundle preparation
• Drafting consent orders or order wording when directed by the Judge
• Strategic guidance on dispute progression
• Assisting with CAFCASS, expert reports & safeguarding issues
• Help contacting mediators or solicitors if escalation becomes necessary
• Support with enforcement, non-compliance, domestic abuse & child matters
• Guidance through procedure, expectations & hearing format
• Researching case law & preparing structured written arguments
• Quiet guidance and support during hearings, where permitted
All written materials are prepared for the client to submit and present themselves.
Going to Court:
Mediation is usually required before issuing court proceedings unless exemptions apply. Court may be the only option in matters involving domestic abuse, child safety, or high-risk circumstances.
Where litigation proceeds, clear preparation is essential. My support helps you understand what the court expects, what stage comes next, and how to put forward your position in a structured and organised manner.
CAFCASS & Other Experts
I assist in reviewing CAFCASS reports, safeguarding letters and expert evidence, helping you understand recommendations and prepare an appropriate response. I can also help you liaise with professionals, social services and other agencies where required.
My Role as Your McKenzie Friend in Court
As a McKenzie Friend, I can:
• Help prepare your case and documents
• Provide guidance and support before, during and after hearings
• Sit beside you in court and offer quiet advice
• Help you plan what you will say and when
A McKenzie Friend does not conduct litigation, act as an advocate or speak for you (unless exceptional permission is granted by the Judge). You remain the person presenting the case, and I support you in doing so effectively.
Most cases can reach resolution without full trial when well-prepared from the outset. Good planning can reduce conflict, delays and emotional strain during proceedings.
How to Contact Maria Lopez
📩 ml@courtsupportlegalservices.com
You may email a brief outline of your situation, and I will respond to arrange a consultation. Remote and in-person appointments are available.
Legal Disclaimer
I provide practical, procedural and document-based support in the capacity of a Lawyer - McKenzie Friend.
I do not provide legal representation, advocacy or reserved legal services.
I am not regulated by the SRA or BSB.
You remain responsible for your case and decisions at all stages.