References

“By the time I was introduced to Vinay, I had experienced severe legal abuse. I worked with one of Wellington’s top legal firms, only to realize their goal was to prolong litigation and maximize fees rather than resolve my case. After filing a formal complaint, they offered a refund—on the condition that I signed a confidentiality agreement. Subsequent lawyers were no better—one was rude and unproductive, another charged $24,600 just to reach the point of filing my first affidavit, and a barrister made suspicious comments about my settlement and how much she had already earmarked for herself. After more than two years, I had only managed to file my first affidavit, which I had largely written myself. Feeling hopeless as these lawyers prioritized profits over progress, I turned to McKenzie Friend Professionals on a friend’s recommendation. Since completing the Self Litigant Course, I’ve gained the confidence to create my own legal documents, significantly reducing costs and empowering me to move forward. I represented myself at my first judicial conference, successfully securing a time extension to complete my master’s degree—a major relief after previous lawyers pressured me to comply with unreasonable demands from the other side. Vinay has provided clarity and support I couldn’t find elsewhere. My previous lawyers instilled fear and prolonged the process, discouraging me from going to court while continuing to rack up costs through endless, unproductive arguments. Now, I feel confident and equipped to resolve my case quickly, using legal assistance only when I need it and on my terms. Working with Vinay has been a revelation. For the first time, I’ve experienced transparency in the legal profession. By the end of working with traditional lawyers, I feared them almost as much as my ex-partner. Vinay’s openness and guidance have been transformative, restoring my confidence and preparing me to appear in court. McKenzie Friend Professionals is a vital service, offering empowerment and support during one of life’s most challenging times. Their approach stands in stark contrast to the exploitative practices I’ve endured. I highly recommend Vinay’s course to anyone facing legal abuse. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate—this service is a lifeline.”

“I had been in the family court system for around two years before coming to do the training with Vinay and the information I learned during the three days completely changed my understanding of the family court and removed a lot of the fear and powerlessness I had felt the whole way through. Vinay covered the information in a way that was accessible, easy to understand and relevant to my own circumstances and legal case. I would highly recommend this as a way to become empowered in the court system, regardless of whether you want to represent yourself or whether you want to work with a lawyer. This course has helped me feel calmer, more equipped, and better positioned to work towards the outcome that I want to achieve in my court cases. Thank you Vinay!”

“Learning about the legal process of the justice system was something I have never been interested in doing. I naturally thought any information that was presented to me I may not retain for lack of interest. Well I was wrong! Over the duration of the program Vinay Deobhakta’s charismatic communication was engaging, easy to understand and follow. Vinay spoke from a treasure trove of years of experience, skills and knowledge. Over the program Vinay also imparted many gold nuggets on how to self litigate which only a very skilled lawyer of years of experience would know. How priceless is that! After getting to know a McKenzie friend that was with us during the 3 days Self Litigants program, I saw just how valuable the ongoing Mentorship and Support that Vinay gives is to those who want to become an Accredited McKenzie friend. This seems to be the icing on the cake and speaks volumes about the integrity of the company and who they are. It shows they have a passion for helping people succeed in life. There is a biblical scripture that says: ‘ My people perish for a lack of knowledge.’ Life’s a battle. Good sound knowledge and wisdom arms you and you wouldn’t go into battle without armor. Vinay’s training imparts vital knowledge that equips you for jousting in and out of court. His Self Litigants program also touches upon the professional and life skills the Accredited McKenzie friends are taught and I’m looking forward to continuing my learning.”

“Thrilled with my win in criminal court on 13 February 2024 in the Upper Hutt District Court thanks to the tutoring and support from my McKenzie Friend, Vinay Deobhakta!! After a false complaint was made about me to the Police, by a disgruntled flatmate who owed me money, 6 Armed Offenders turned up at my door 16 months (486 days) ago. Their heavy handed and overbearing approach saw me criminally charged with Behaving Threatenly [sic], given overbearing bail conditions for that entire time, enduring 8 court appearances(8 days off work) until finally yesterday when all charges were dropped. Vinay gave me crucial knowledge, an accurate understanding of my case and the confidence to speak up and defend myself. I objected to a request from the NZ Police to drag the case out longer because they hadn’t booked in their witnesses (I was told), endured an 8 hour hearing with cross examination and made a vital application in front of the Judge yesterday, resulting in ALL charges being dismissed. Amid the trauma of being charged and throughout the 486 day case, the NZ Police lied to me telling me I couldn’t represent myself, I needed to have a lawyer, refused to acknowledge my McKenzie Friend and refused to give me full disclosure. Historically, I have had a poor relationship with the NZ Police for similar reasons to these and this case was no different. It is noteworthy that the officer in Charge is no longer living in NZ working for the NZ Police in Upper Hutt. I credit McKenzie Friend professionals and Vinay Deobhakta with teaching me accurate and Independent knowledge, suggestions made throughout my case, the supportive and all important preparation guidance. Thanks McKenzie Friend Professionals, it’s a game changer!!