Initial Consultation
Start with a complementary 15-min consultation
to discuss your case. We’ll identify your priorities—whether it’s custody,
visitation rights, or parental
responsibility—and provide a clear
plan tailored to your needs.
Family Law | McKenzie Friend for Child Arrangements
Can’t afford a solicitor? Get affordable help with child arrangements (custody and contact)
We can help you with:
👉 C100 application and Child Arrangements Orders.
👉 Cafcass safeguarding calls, Section 7 reports and your first hearing (FHDRA).
👉 Fact-finding hearings, dispute resolution appointments and final hearings.
👉 Specific Issue Orders and Prohibited Steps Orders for schooling, medical treatment, travel, or relocation disputes.
👉 Witness statements, position statements and court bundles.
👉 Breach of orders, enforcement (C79) and changing orders.
15-Min Consultation Available. Pay in 3 monthly instalments with Klarna.
Get Help Today - Fill Out The Form Below!
Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews, 1000s Saved in Legal Fees
With over 300 five-star reviews across Google, Facebook, and “Find a McKenzie Friend,”
we’re proud to be the top-rated McKenzie Friends for family law in the UK. Real stories, real results—See how we’ve
helped families like yours.
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
Both Preenay and Klaudia were excellent in supporting me with my child arrangements order; from the very first call with Preenay to discuss my situation, to the final hearing which Preenay attended, he's been very professional and informative throughout. Klaudia has assisted me mostly throughout the last 18 months and has always remained non-judgemental, professional and very understanding of my situation.
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
Great experience with Mr. Chohan. Always has helped Alot, my case would have costed me over a few grands. Price efficient and considerate. I really do owe him Alot, his helped me and created a open channel and custody over my child. He actually goes beyond his pay. Bless the team. Will highly recommend. Love and prayers!!
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
Preenay and Klaudia were excellent in supporting me with my child arrangements order. From start to finish very professional and informative. I would 100% recommend to anyone entering into family court proceedings.
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
I have not seen my daughter in several years and did not have a great experience with the highly paid solicitors I used previously.
I highly recommend using the services of this McKenzie Friend, who offer affordable advice and support.
Preenay Chohan has been a rock throughout my journey and has worked tirelessly, sometimes very late into the night, for my case. Thanks a lot!
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
I would recommend hiring the services of a McKenzie friend to anyone that needs any legal advice, help or assistance as a reasonable cost.
The service is first class and exceptionally professional. The legal team put the needs of the client before anything else.
A truly 5 star service and experience!!
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
Preenay, Klaudia and the team were extremely helpful to me whilst I was pursuing a contact order for my son. During a very stressful and worrysome time, they were kind and reassuring whilst maintaining excellent levels of efficiency throughout. From start to finish an excellent service. Thank you very much guys and I would highly recommend that anyone considering using these people do so without hesitation.
★★★★★
Family Law Read More
After being under a lot of stress and not really sure where to turn. I messaged McKenzie friends and Preenay called me, he listend to everything that was going on and gave me some very useful advice. He is very responsive at replying to me and is continuously giving me advice and helps me with my next steps! thank you for your help and support during very stressful and uncertain times!
★★★★★
Child Arrangements Read More
I wasn't sure about an issue with an ex partner, the father to my children infact, Preenay answered my message immediately nd discussed what I could do, then rang me the following morning, he was so easy to talk to and so helpful, really put me at ease as to what I needed to do! I highly recommend Mckenzie Friend Services, thank you so much!
★★★★★
Family Law Read More
Found the advice and support got from this company amazing and nothing seems to be to much trouble for them, I liked them due to having good sound ethics and also understanding my situation as well as a good understanding of the law and translating it in to terms I could understand.
★★★★★
Family Law Read More
This is a great option if you do not have the funds for a lawyer. As you are getting the right information that is required for each step of the legal process. Very reasonably priced as well. Preenay is a gentleman and his team are always on hand to help.
★★★★★
Family Law Read More
Great advice from the first phone call, which then continues throughout each steps with clear explanations.
Unlike some solicitors the terms used aren’t confusing nor is it stressful trying to speak to somebody to never receive a call back!
A phone call is welcomed and if you leave a message somebody will always get back to you shortly.
How Mckenzie Friends Service helps with child arrangements
Find your situation below. Every service is preparation and support, so you stay in charge of your case and present it with confidence.
Child Arrangements & Applications
Forms: C100 (application), FM1 (MIAM form) or an exemption, C1A (if there are safety or abuse concerns), C8 (to keep your address private)
- Completing your C100 application, with your MIAM details or exemption.
- Writing your witness statement and a clear timeline of your child’s routine and your involvement.
- Setting out exactly what you're asking the court to order.
- Form C1A if there are safety or abuse concerns.
Contact Orders & shared parenting
Forms: C100 (to apply), C7 (to respond to the other parent’s application)
- Realistic proposals for weekends, midweek time, holidays and handovers.
- Restoring contact after a long gap.
- Your response to the other parent's application (Form C7).
- A parenting plan the court can approve, or the other parent can agree to.
Cafcass and your first hearing (FHDRA)
Paperwork: Cafcass safeguarding letter, your position statement, any draft consent order
- Getting ready for the Cafcass call: what they ask and how to stay calm and child-focused.
- Reading the safeguarding letter and what it means for your hearing.
- A short position statement with your proposals.
- Judge orders including a Section 7 report, and what to do next.
Fact-finding hearings
Paperwork: Scott Schedule, witness statement, evidence bundle
- Your witness statement and evidence (messages, photos, police or medical records) in date order.
- Preparing the questions you want put to the other party, through the judge.
- How to ask for protections such as screens, a separate waiting area or a video link.
Specific issue and prohibited steps orders
Forms: C100 (new application), C2 (if you already have a case open)
- Urgent applications, for example to stop a child being taken out of the country.
- Your supporting statement on why the order is needed.
- Evidence in date order: messages, school or medical letters, travel plans.
Parental responsibility
Forms: C(PRA1) (parental responsibility agreement), C1 (court application)
- Checking whether you already have it.
- Setting up a parental responsibility agreement with the mother.
- Applying to court if she won't agree.
- Knowing which decisions you can make alone and which you must share.
Statements, evidence and bundles
Paperwork: witness statement, position statement, chronology, court bundle
- A well drafted witness statement, signed with a statement of truth.
- A short position statement for each hearing.
- A chronology of the key dates.
- A bundle with an index and numbered pages, put together to the court's directions.
Breach and changing orders
Forms: C79 (enforcement), C2 (to change an order in an open case) or C100 (if your case has closed)
- A log of each missed or refused contact, with dates, messages and reasons.
- Your C79 and a clear supporting statement.
- Making the case for a change that suits your child, and drafting the new terms.
Why contact Preenay Chohan at McKenzie Friend Service?
- Practical family court support for people in the UK who cannot afford a solicitor
- Experience with difficult cases, particularly divorce and financial settlements
- Help with court forms, evidence, position statements, court bundles and hearing preparation
- Upfront pricing at £100 per hour, with costs discussed before work proceeds
- A flexible payment option through Klarna, subject to eligibility and terms
- Rated 4.9 stars on Google Business
- Listed at number one on the Find a McKenzie Friend directory
Preenay is a McKenzie Friend and founder of McKenzie Friend Services Ltd. Since 2016, he has helped parents and individuals across England and Wales prepare for family court, from our offices in Birmingham, London and Manchester. He represented himself in his own child arrangements case and secured 50/50 shared care, so he knows what you’re facing.
Child Arrangement hearings: what to expect, and how we help
Most child arrangements cases follow these stages. Yours may skip some.
C100 and MIAM
You apply to the court, usually after a mediation assessment meeting unless exempt. We complete your C100 and MIAM details.
Cafcass safeguarding
Cafcass checks police and council records and speaks to each parent. We prepare you for the call.
First hearing (FHDRA)
The judge looks for agreement and sets directions. We prepare your position statement and sit beside you.
Fact-finding, if needed
The judge decides disputed allegations. We prepare statements, evidence and a Scott Schedule.
Dispute resolution (DRA)
A later hearing aiming to settle before a final hearing. We prepare your proposals.
Final Court hearing
The judge decides. We prepare your bundle, final statement and the order you're asking for.
After the order
We help you enforce it (C79) or apply to change it.
What does a McKenzie Friend cost in the UK?
Initial call
15 minutes to explain your situation and what help you need.
£100 per hour
Advice and case preparation, quoted before we start. [No retainer].
Hearing fixed fee [from £800]
A fixed price for court attendance, pay in 3-monthly installements.
How Our Affordable Family Law Support Works
Our divorce and family law McKenzie Friends offer expert 1 on1 advice on child-related matters,
ensuring the best outcome for your family. Here’s how we guide you through each step:
Preparation & Guidance
Our McKenzie Friends will assist with completing C100 form and draft
position or final statements. We’ll guide you through Cafcass interviews, court
protocols, and legal requirements to strengthen your case.
Hearing Support
From FHDRA to final hearings, our family law team will guide you on self-representation and help you stay organised.
We make sure you’re confident in presenting your case with ongoing support.
Why Hire McKenzie Friend for Your Child Custody Case?
Custody cases don’t have to be expensive—get friendly, affordable support from our McKenzie Friends!
Affordable, Transparent Pricing
We charge only £100/hour after a free 15-min consultation session.
Fixed Price, No Retainers
No upfront costs or hidden charges. You only pay for the services you use.
Flexible Scheduling
We work around your schedule, not the other way around.
Alternative To A Solicitor
Receive reliable, professional support in court without paying solicitor rates.
Detailed Guidance
We will guide you through all forms, statements, and proof at no extra cost.
Self Representation Help
You’ll receive our full support, ensuring you never feel alone in court.
Facing Custody Court Anxiety? We’ve Got You Covered.
We’re offering a 15-Min consultation (office or video call) to discuss your child arrangement needs.
Low-Cost Child Arrangements Help For You
Family law advice doesn’t have to be expensive — if you can’t afford solicitors, our McKenzie Friends are your best option!
Mothers Looking for Shared or Solo Custody
Need support securing custody or setting fair contact arrangements? We assist mothers with Child Arrangement Orders and offer guidance for FHDRA and dispute resolution hearings. Our affordable help ensures your child’s best interests are prioritised throughout the court process.
Fathers Looking for Shared or Solo Custody
Fathers have rights too. We help secure Child Arrangement Orders, tackle breaches with enforcement orders, & navigate dispute resolution or fact-finding hearings. With our expert guidance, you can ensure a fair outcome & maintain a meaningful relationship with your child.
Grandparents Seeking Child Arrangements
Struggling to stay in touch with your grandchildren? Our McKenzie Friends assist grandparents in obtaining Contact Orders and representing their interests in dispute resolution or court hearings. Let us help you preserve this cherished relationship with clear, affordable support.
Family Court Without a Lawyer
Avoid expensive solicitors while getting expert help. From drafting Child Arrangement Orders to preparing for FHDRA and fact-finding hearings, we support you in representing yourself with confidence. Now, you can achieve best outcome for your family without hefty costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Child custody refers to decisions about where your child lives and who is responsible for their upbringing. In the UK, family courts prioritise the child’s welfare when deciding custody. Factors like the child’s age, needs, and relationship with each parent are considered. We can guide you on presenting a strong case that highlights what’s best for your child.
A Child Arrangement Order (CAO) sets out where your child lives, who they spend time with, and how often. If you and the other parent can’t agree, applying for a CAO is the next step. We’ll help you complete and submit the application and explain what happens next.
Yes, you can apply to vary a court order if circumstances have changed. This could include a new job, relocation, or changes in your child’s needs. We’ll guide you on how to request these changes.
Yes! Fathers have the same rights as mothers when it comes to child custody. UK law focuses on the child’s welfare, not the parent’s gender. If you’re a dad looking to spend more time with your child or seeking full custody, we can help you build a strong case to present in court.
Our trusted McKenzie Friends provide affordable family law advice and practical support designed for you. Need help filling out a C100 form? Preparing for court? We simplify it all. We make sure your voice is heard in the court—without the high costs of solicitors. Your first 30-minute consultation is free. After that, an in-depth session is just £100.
Our services are designed to be affordable. We offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your case. A detailed session with unlimited time costs just £100, far less than the £300/hour solicitors typically charge.
Not necessarily. Many parents choose McKenzie Friends because we offer the same expertise without the high costs. We provide all the guidance you need to represent yourself effectively in court.
Going to court isn’t mandatory if you both agree on child custody. However, for added security, it’s highly recommended to formalise your agreement with a legal “consent order.” This ensures both parties are legally bound by the agreed-upon arrangements.
You’ll need documents like your child’s birth certificate, school certificates (if applicable), proof of your income, living arrangements, and any records of communication with the other parent. We’ll review your documents and ensure everything is ready for court.
Preparing for court can be stressful, but we’re here to help. We’ll assist you in organising your documents, preparing strong witness statements, and going through what the judge might ask. With our support, you’ll feel ready and equipped to present your case confidently.
Family Court Help Wherever You Need It
Locations: 3 offices + in-person/remote support at major UK family courts.
We can also travel to your court for assistance wherever you are.
- +44 20 8150 6881
- info@mckenziefriend.net
- Mon - Sunday (9 AM - 8 PM)
- 5 Chancery Ln, London WC2A 1LG, United Kingdom
- +44 161 669 6269
- info@mckenziefriend.net
- Mon - Sunday (9 AM - 8 PM)
- 3 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2BN, United Kingdom
Book YOuR Free Consultation
Your child’s right to a happy and stable home matters. Get expert help with child arrangements today!
