Our Company
Every year, thousands of people in England and Wales face court proceedings without representation. Many must navigate civil disputes, divorce, financial matters or child arrangements alone.
Reduced legal aid funding and the high cost of solicitors has made traditional representation inaccessible for many, leaving litigants to manage applications, evidence and hearings without support.
Court Support and Legal Services Ltd exists to bridge that gap.
We provide structured, practical and procedural assistance to Litigants in Person (LIPs) in both Family and Civil proceedings. Our work focuses on preparation, clarity and organisation, helping you to structure your case, prepare documents, and understand the process before attending court.
Maria Lopez
Maria Lopez has assisted litigants in person in Family and Civil matters since 2015. She supports clients with preparation,drafting, procedural understanding and hearing planning. Her role is to enable clear, confident presentation of your case, rather than to replace your voice.
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Are you preparing to issue proceedings or respond to an application?
Do you need help drafting statements or preparing evidence?
Would you benefit from structured guidance and support through the process?
Do you need someone experienced with you at court to provide quiet advice?
Maria offers practical, informed support to help you present your position clearly, confidently and in an organised manner.
What We Offer
Our assistance includes:
• Guidance on procedure in Family and Civil Court matters.
• Support with completing and preparing court applications.
• Assistance drafting statements, evidence documents and supporting paperwork.
• Organisation of case bundles and disclosure.
• Preparation for hearings, review of directions and planning of case strategy.
• Quiet advice and reassurance during hearings, where permitted.
• Drafting opening notes, issue summaries, written submissions and closing summaries for the client to present.
• Preparing verbal submission notes to guide what you will say in court.
• Assistance in drafting agreed court orders or consent wording when directed by the Judge.
All documents and submissions are prepared for the client to present in their own name.
We assist, you remain in control of your case.
Important Professional Clarification
Court Support and Legal Services Ltd does not provide legal representation.
We are not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Standards Board, and we do not conduct litigation or exercise rights of audience.
Our assistance is provided in the capacity of a Lawyer - McKenzie Friend, supporting you to present your own case as a litigant in person.
You are always free to instruct a regulated solicitor or barrister if you decide it is necessary or beneficial at any stage.
Using a McKenzie Friend
The court recognises the right of a litigant in person to receive reasonable assistance from a McKenzie Friend.
A McKenzie Friend may:
• offer support and reassurance;
• take notes and help organise paperwork;
• quietly advise on case conduct;
• help structure what the client wishes to say.
A McKenzie Friend may not conduct litigation, act as an advocate, or automatically address the court without permission. Any speaking rights are always at the discretion of the Judge.
You remain the person presenting your case, we assist you to do so effectively.
Equal Treatment for Litigants in Person
Litigants in person are entitled to equal treatment and a fair hearing. Judges must ensure that unrepresented parties have a reasonable opportunity to present their case, understand the issues, and follow the process, even where the other side has legal representation.
However, the court cannot give legal advice. This is why organised paperwork, clear statements and well-prepared submissions are so valuable.
Good preparation can reduce stress, increase clarity and help ensure your case is understood on its merits.
Court Support and Legal Services Ltd supports this by helping you prepare confidently, thoroughly and with structure.