Self-Representing in Family Court

[Anna1900]

Hello, I've been sent papers to go to court for child arrangements order and I have never been to court before. I've decided to represent myself for a number of reasons, and am wondering if any mums out there have court experience / self representing experience they could share regarding this. I'd really appreciate it as I am feeling so nervous about it. Thanks so much for reading.

Hi OP, I've heard good things about book: Family Court without a Lawyer

More important than knowing procedure is the willingness to be absolutely reasonable. You shouldn't go in determined that access it a bad thing and needs to be stopped - it's important to show that you're keen to find positive ways to move forward.

Hi,
I spent 4 long years dealing with family court proceedings and it is nerve-wracking to start with. I had never set foot inside a court before either.

I started off being represented by a (useless) lawyer and got nowhere fast. It wasn't until I sacked her and then represented myself that I felt I had some control over the situation - and more importantly - my children's wishes were listened to.

My best advice is to always appear calm and put your point across in a reasonable manner. Make notes, if it helps.

The whole thing can seem very daunting but try not to worry. You can contact me on here anytime if you think it will help, I don't mind.

Good Luck x

yes i've been self representing for a couple of years.

Record everything. remember any emails could be read by a judge so keep them polite and reasonable.

That the court will rule he can see them so keep things realistic and reasonable.

What is the actual problem?

Hi I found myself in the family courts earlier this year. I umm'd and aah'd about whether to represent myself, and in the end decided I wanted the best possible outcome for my daughter, which I felt I'd only have if I was represented.
The court itself was not bad at all. I found the judge to be very reasonable and he sided mainly with my wishes and concerns. I think where I would have come unstuck if I represented myself was before I'd actually gone into the courtroom. My ex had a barrister who I thought was quite brash and intimidating. Had I of not had a solicitor I'd have had to deal with him myself which I would have found daunting and most probably wouldn't have got the outcome I got.
My ex also behaved like an absolute twat in court but that's another story!
My advice to you would be try not to panic too much, stay calm. If you're a strong willed individual who won't be phased by the other parties representation then you'll be more than fine on your own... if you think you'll weaken under pressure or like me get flustered and stressed then definitely think about having someone with you - even if it's a Mackenzie friend.