How Do I Represent Myself in Court? A Guide for Self-Representing Litigants in England and Wales

Facing a legal case without professional representation can feel overwhelming. Yet, many people in the United Kingdom choose to represent themselves in court; be it due to financial constraints or simply a preference for taking control of their own case. 

If you're considering self representing, this guide is here to help. Below, we’ll walk you through the essentials of self-representation; from understanding whether it’s a viable option for you to actionable steps on how to represent yourself in court and win.  

If you're feeling unsure about going it alone, we'll also highlight an option that sits between traditional solicitors and self-representation: direct access barristers, a cost-effective solution that could give you a legal edge without breaking the bank. 

Is representing myself in court possible? 

Yes, you can represent yourself in court in the United Kingdom. This approach, known as being a "litigant in person", is entirely legal and recognised by the UK judicial system. You’ll have the same responsibilities and obligations as a solicitor, but the court ensures that self-represented individuals are given reasonable accommodations to understand the process.  

However, before deciding, ask yourself the following questions: 

• Do I have time to research the relevant laws and court procedures around my case? 

• Am I comfortable speaking in public, presenting arguments, and cross-examining witnesses in the courtroom if necessary? 

• Is my case relatively straightforward, or does it require more complex legal understanding? 

While representing yourself could save substantial legal fees, it’s important to be honest with yourself about your ability to handle the case effectively. More complex cases, especially those involving intricate nuances or high stakes, might be better handled with the help of an experienced professional.  

How can I successfully represent myself in court? 

1. Understand Your Case

The first step to effective self-representation is thoroughly understanding the details of your case. This involves: 

• Reading all documents 

Ensure you’ve reviewed every piece of correspondence related to the case, including the claim forms, evidence, and witness statements.  

• Identifying key issues 

Clarify what the court must decide. What do you need to prove? What does the other party need to prove? Make sure you thoroughly understand the purpose behind each step of proceedings.  

• Researching Relevant Laws 

Look up the principles and legislation that apply to your case, noting that this may vary depending on jurisdiction. The gov.uk website and the Courts and Tribunals Judiciary website can be useful resources here.

2. Prepare Your Evidence

Strong evidence can often make or break your case. The court relies on facts, so take time to: 

• Organise your evidence logically. This could include contracts, receipts, emails, or photographs — but will depend heavily on the nature of your case. 

• Take care that all documents are filed correctly and on time. Missing deadlines may weaken your case. 

• Prepare a concise chronology of events to help the judge follow your argument easily.
  

3. Familiarise Yourself with Court Procedures

Court can be an intimidating environment, so it’s important to know what to expect ahead of your hearing. 

First, review the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) if you're involved in a civil matter, or the Family Procedure Rules (FPR) for family law cases. These govern the practices and procedures to be followed in courts in England and Wales.  

Also ensure that you understand your responsibilities as a litigant. These will include presenting your case clearly, questioning witnesses, and following court etiquette. 

If possible, visit the court and attend a similar hearing as an observer so you’re familiar with the format and atmosphere of the day. 

4. Prepare for the Hearing

To prepare effectively, outline your key arguments with a short and clear statement, avoiding unnecessary jargon, and practice your delivery to build confidence, whether you're presenting your case or cross-examining a witness. 

While there’s no strict dress code for litigants, it’s generally expected that you’ll wear formal attire.

5. Stay calm and professional

Your behaviour in court can significantly impact how well your case is received. Remember: 

• Be polite and respectful to the judge, opposing parties, and court staff 

• Focus on the legal issues and facts at hand, rather than personal grievances 

• Take notes throughout the hearing so that you can respond to opposing arguments effectively 

Additional Support for Litigants in Person 

Even if you're confident about self-representing, there are situations where partial legal assistance can be invaluable. Direct access barristers present a fantastic option for cases that require legal expertise without the high fees typically associated with retaining a solicitor.  

They can support you by: 

• Providing expert legal advice on your case 

• Drafting compelling legal documents and arguments 

• Representing you in court 

You only pay for the specific services you need, making them a budget-friendly choice for straightforward cases or when you simply need guidance on a particular aspect of your case. Some services, like Barrister Connect, operate on a fixed fee basis — meaning the fees are agreed before any work takes place, and won’t change unless the scope of the job does. 

For many, this is the perfect middle ground between full legal representation and complete self-representation. You can find out more about direct access, and whether it’s suitable for your case, here. 

What else do I need to know about representing myself in court? 

While the steps above provide practical guidance, there are a few key considerations to bear in mind as a self-represented litigant. 

Firstly, you’ll be held to the same standards. While judges may give litigants in person some leeway, you’ll generally be expected to follow court rules and procedures just like a qualified lawyer. 

Secondly, costs may be awarded against you. If you lose the case, you could be ordered to pay the other party’s legal costs. Take care to understand this risk before proceeding, as it could be costly. 

Finally, know that you’re able to seek support where needed. Organisations such as Citizens Advice and the Bar Council offer various free resources to help self-represented individuals prepare for court. 

Representing yourself in court is entirely possible and, for many, the most practical route due to the high costs associated with traditional legal representation. By carefully preparing your case, familiarising yourself with court processes ahead of time, and remaining professional in your presentation, you can give yourself a strong chance of success. 

That said, self-representation isn’t for everyone. If you’re tackling a complex case or simply want a helping hand, consider engaging a direct access barrister. They bring expertise and insight without the additional expense of hiring a solicitor, and can offer an affordable way to strengthen your standing in a case. 

If you're ready to take the next step but need expert support, get in touch with our friendly team to find out how Barrister Connect might be able to help.