Is a barrister necessary for First Directions Appointment

[liveforDC]

This is about financial proceedings in divorce. I paid a barrister as LIP for the FDA a few months ago. At the hearing, the other party claimed mental health. The judge adjourned the FDA. Do I need to bring another barrister to the adjourned FDA? Essentially my legal fee would double if I do. If not, I don't feel that confident to attend by myself. The court also seems to rely on the barrister to draft orders etc after the hearing. It is a lot of money for me. Any advice is welcome. Many thanks in advance.

Hi.

I think from reading your post my situation is slightly different. I was very fair to my ex husband but because the pension was not touched by me the courts would not agree to the deal myself and ex had already agreed on!

It sounds like you have done court already so you know what to sort of expect. I went without legal representation, as did my ex but very different to your scenario.

If you think that there will be questions which you cannot answer or are not confident with and there is a lot at stake then really consider taking a legal rep.

I wish you well at a stressful time.

@Jas683 Thank you for your reply. I went with a legal representative in the end and I won't regret the decision. At the court, the judge spoke with my barrister. It was hard for me to follow everything they said. Cannot imagine if there was a barrister there. My case can move to FDR now.

For your case, if the judge thinks you should have a share in the pension, that sounds reasonable. Wish your case will progress.