Representing myself in family court?

[Hullabalooo]

My EA ex is taking me to family court for increased custody.

My solicitor has proved useless and told me that there's no likelihood that legal aid will have come through by time of first hearing early next month.

I need to represent myself in court or try to adjourn but that's an extra £150 and loads more forms with no guarantee of an adjournment as it's at the Judge's discretion.

Is it worth trying to get an adjournment do you think? I hear there's no guarantee the judge will agree. So might end up having to represent myself anyway.

I'm petrified of ex so the thought of having to do this is just horrific. What do I do? Has anyone done this?

Can you get a Mackenzie friend?

What's wrong with your solicitor?
She maybe helping you.
My dp's ex solicitor has just made her look like a loon and should of given her advice against what she requested the solicitor to do. It's back fired and the solicitor can't get hold of her and she's now stopped contact because she didn't get what she wanted.

Have you been to court already?

Not been to court before with ex.

Solicitor can't represent me until legal aid is in which won't be for ages it seems.

I could try to find a Mackenzie friend.

Really worn out with it all!

I did it, OP! It was the best decision I ever made.
My ex self-repped as well.
The animosity between us receded a great deal and I wonder if it was because immediately, both of us felt less stressed by legal fees.

Wikivorce website and forum was a firm friend! I got so much invaluable advice and also, it helped me to learn how to think with a cool head in a situation where I felt terrified, angry, and so wronged. I needed to think straight. I needed to remember everyone's rights, while putting forward a solid case for mine. I got to know the law as opposed to 'my' law.

You can find a McKenzie friend via the Wikivorce website. Get onto that forum. Learn about the legal framework you're working within. And trust that you can absolutely self rep and have a very positive outcome. PM me anytime!

Thanks @thevanguard6 that's positive to hear. Could I check if your ex is abusive though or signs of coercive control? That's my main issue