Law students from a university in Southampton are giving up their time to help local people defending themselves in court.

Some 17 students from the University of Southampton have signed up to be 'McKenzie Friends' at the small claims court in Southampton.

A McKenzie Friend supports a defendant in court if they don't have legal representation by taking notes, explaining the process or prompting the defendant.

The project is a new partnership between the university and Southampton County Court.

Students will be in once a month on a Monday to provide assistance and support.

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Second-year law student Maddy Nicholl, 20, is vice president of the university's Global Legal Clinic and has led the McKenzie Friends project.

Maddy Nicholl, 20, has led the McKenzie Friends project.Maddy Nicholl, 20, has led the McKenzie Friends project. (Image: University of Southampton) She said: "This project has been an invaluable opportunity for my personal and professional growth.

"It has allowed me to develop important skills, including networking with the judiciary, having had the privilege of hosting His Honour Judge Philip Glen.

"Spending time in court, learning the procedures firsthand, and witnessing the real-life impact of our work has deepened my understanding of the justice system and strengthened my commitment to ensuring that access to justice is available to everyone."

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Lizzie Brook, 20, is studying law with psychology and is volunteering as a McKenzie Friend.

She said: "By offering much-needed emotional support and helping clients navigate the court process, we can make a real difference."

Keagan Smith, supervising solicitor at the university's law school, said: "McKenzie Friends is a great scheme that assists members of the public to have better representation in court and feel more comfortable and not just isolated in what can be a stressful situation.

"It's fantastic experience for the students who want to become solicitors or barristers because it gives them court exposure and an understanding of what the court processes are.

"It is also a chance for them to develop emotional support skills that are important when supporting clients through the court process, and it helps students to understand clients' needs."

The students will next be available as McKenzie Friends at the small claims court in Southampton on Monday, May 12.