Solicitor advising to attend court alone

[Notmyrealpersona]

My solicitor is advising me to attend a hearing alone for the sale of the family home. This is what is being said
thinks that chances of opposing the order for sale are slim but greater if you appear 'in person' than through a lawyer. It will enable you to explain your reasons to the judge in your own words. On this occasion, i believe you will get far more of an opportunity to put forward your arguments if made personally than through legal representation. I will prepare the outline for you to complete in your own words and can then check through the statement once you've done it.

Is this normal practice?

Not unheard of. How much would you be paying for advice and representation that your lawyer thuinks will be unsuccessful? Go for it.

I did similar with a client last week. Would have cost a packet for me to attend court and I did a written submission on his behalf. Result was almost predetermined anyway so I had little else of value to add.

Would you still do this if your client was in a fragile state of health ( long term mental health issues exacerbated by an extremely acrimonious divorce and recent breast cancer diagnosis and treatment supported by her GP ) and you had previously requested an adjournment on a court hearing for these reasons even with a solicitor and barrister present.

@Notmyrealpersona

Would you still do this if your client was in a fragile state of health ( long term mental health issues exacerbated by an extremely acrimonious divorce and recent breast cancer diagnosis and treatment supported by her GP ) and you had previously requested an adjournment on a court hearing for these reasons even with a solicitor and barrister present.

Your lawyer won't know what you are feeling. Can you take a support person?

@sweetbellyhigh
Just say you will pay the solicitor if you are not well enough to do it. If you don’t feel up to it, tell them.