WHO IS IAN OLDFIELD, YOUR MCKENZIE FRIEND?

 A ‘McKenzie Friend’ does not need to be legally qualified; however, I hold a Law Degree and am part qualified as a Barrister.

What distinguishes me from other McKenzie Friends is myself, repeat clients and referrals and I have legal qualifications.

As I am well known, there are certain judges that allow me to offer my submission which is different to Rights of Audience. I am that well respected. That includes opposite Counsel. 

I am DBS checked.

I am fully Professional Indemnity Insured (identical to Solicitor’s Professional Indemnity Insurance)

Clients ask why I ONLY CHARGE £80.  They suggest I should charge more as I am as good as a Solicitor. My fees will remain at £80.

=======

As of 2026, I now have 10 years full time experience as a professional McKenzie Friend / Legal Advisor. 

• I offer honest opinions and will not mislead you even if it's not what you want to hear.
• I am also well respected by arioso Barristers and so know that any negotiations will be fair. 
• I have a strong positive reputation in the Southwest.
• My personality is charismatic, serious but like to laugh to ensure you are at ease. 
• I grew up in Surrey before moving to Bristol where I read Law at Bristol University gaining a Law LLB Honours degree in 1995.
• I progressed to pass my 'Bar' exams (1996) at the prestigious 'Inns of Court School of Law', London for the 1-year Bar Vocational Course. I was 'Called to the Bar' in November 1996.  I did not do my Pupillage, hence can’t practice as a Barrister. 
• Member of THE SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL MCKENZIE FRIENDS. I am therefore under the Service Standards as above at top of page 1
• I am a DBS-checked professional who adheres to the guidance for McKenzie Friends.
• I am transparent in my costs. 
• I appreciate the importance of effective communication with my clients, ensuring they have understood.
• I will get to know you and understand your own individual situation so that I can help you determine whatever issues you are facing.
• I offer practical, valued support and guidance from our initial meeting to the Final Hearing at Court and then if needed to Appeal.  
• I am with you for the whole journey to achieve the best outcome for you.
• I constantly advise my clients on the next steps forward to achieve the best practicable result in the circumstances.
• I have the ability to synthesise legal facts and formulate these into simple submissions.
• I am allowed to quietly advise my client in court, explain any legal jargon and advise what questions to ask the other Party and that includes Cafcass and Social Services.

HOW CAN I AS MCKENZIE FRIEND HELP?

• Support / Advise on any matter to do with Family Law, Divorce & Matrimonial Law, Separation.
• Assist in the preparation of all Divorce and Family forms.
• Assist in the preparation of all Small Claim Forms
• Write a Pre Action Letter
• Assist in writing Position Statements and Witness Statements
• Participate in negotiations
• Assist in preparing the court bundle
• Discuss and go through case notes and prepare for the court appearance.
• Attend court
• Provide moral support for the LIP
• Take notes in court
• Quietly advise on Points of Law or Procedure and Issues that the litigant may wish to raise in court
• Prepare Questions the litigant may wish to ask witnesses
• Prepare opening and closing statements

• The list is endless

AS A MCKENZIE FRIEND I CANNOT: -

• Speak for you in Court or address the Judge in Court
• Speak to the other party unless in Court where I can speak / negotiate with their legal team
• Email / post anything on your behalf to Court or any party