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Nikkie Gilbert, Independent Domestic Violence Advisor and McKenzie Friend

About us

Meet Nikkie - the person beside you

An independent McKenzie Friend and Independent Private IDVA service founded on over 17 years of court experience - and lived experience of the family court.

Book a free consultationCall 07434 760 366
The Learned Society of McKenzie Friends - member (opens in a new tab)
  • Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)
  • Post-traumatic family court coach
  • Fully insured - public liability & professional indemnity
  • Works in line with the judicial Practice Guidance on McKenzie Friends
Nikkie Gilbert, Independent Domestic Violence Advisor and McKenzie Friend

Hi, I'm Nikkie

Professional McKenzie Friend. I founded We Are Your McKenzie Friend to offer independent, compassionate and affordable support to people navigating the family and civil courts.

I've spent over 17 years supporting people through the Family, Civil and Criminal courts.

I also have my own experience of facing the family court alone. Both sides of that - the professional and the personal - mean I can offer something I believe matters: the reassurance that I have genuinely walked in your shoes.

"You are never alone, you are in safe hands."

My story

Having spent over 17 years supporting individuals through family, civil and criminal court proceedings, I understand just how daunting, emotional and overwhelming the court process can be.

I also understand this from personal experience, having navigated the family court system myself. I know what it feels like to face uncertainty, worry about the outcome and simply need someone by your side who understands what you are going through.

Over the years, I have supported people through some of the most difficult and challenging times in their lives. I have seen first-hand how much difference it makes to have someone who listens, offers reassurance and helps people feel more confident and prepared.

This is what inspired me to establish We Are Your McKenzie Friend.

I wanted to use the knowledge, experience and understanding I have gained over the years to provide affordable, compassionate and practical support to individuals representing themselves in family court.

While solicitors and barristers provide legal representation, my role as a McKenzie Friend is different. I offer practical and emotional support, helping clients prepare for hearings, organise documents, understand court procedures and feel supported throughout the process.

I can also sit alongside clients during hearings, taking notes and offering quiet guidance and reassurance. Occasionally, a judge may allow a McKenzie Friend to speak in court, but this is entirely at the court's discretion.

I support anyone facing the family court - mothers, fathers and grandparents alike. My approach is warm, compassionate, non-judgemental and professional. I believe everyone deserves to feel listened to, respected and empowered, particularly when facing something as important and emotional as court proceedings.

My aim is simple: to help you feel less alone, more prepared and confident that your voice will be heard.

We Are Your McKenzie Friend - You are never alone, you are in safe hands.

See Nikkie in the media ↓

In the media

Nikkie's work and story

Some of the work Nikkie has been involved in, raising awareness of domestic abuse and the family court.

You don't have to face it alone

Free, no-obligation first consultation.

Book a free consultationCall 07434 760 366