Petitioning at the high court? - Help on the day

fermi

Thought this might be useful. I hope this info is still up to date.

The PSU is an independent charity, based in the main building at the Royal Courts of Justice in Strand, London. The PSU provides non-legal advice, help, information and support to litigants in person and to any member of the public attending at the Royal Courts of Justice who may need help or assistance. We also operate at the Principal Registry of the Family Division at First Avenue House, High Holborn and at Wandsworth County Court

http://www.thepsu.co.uk

The PSU was established in January 2001 and achieved charitable status in January 2002. It is a company limited by guarantee with a board of 9 Trustees.

The Courts are a daunting and intimidating place for those involved in legal proceedings. For those who do not have legal representation the difficulties are made worse. We try to overcome these difficulties by providing practical advice and support.

What They can do for you -

They can go around the court building with you.

They can go into court with you and stay with you during the hearing. (When the court is sitting in chambers or in private, we will need the permission of the judge and other parties).

They offer emotional support and practical information about what happens in court or at the RCJ offices.

They have a room where you can wait, talk through your case or just have a cup of tea.

They can normally help you straightaway - just ring 020 7947 7701 or 7703.


What they cannot do for you -

They cannot offer legal advice, as we are not trained to do so. This means that they cannot provide an advocacy service, and they cannot represent you at hearings.

They cannot help you with filling in forms.

If you need legal advice about your case at Court, they refer you to the RCJ Advice Bureau. This is on the ground floor, Royal Courts of Justice.

There is also a Citizens' Advice Bureau, on the fourth floor at First Avenue House, High Holborn.

The volunteers are trained in working at court and in ways of helping and supporting people.

The service is free, independent and confidential.

They help litigants-in-person, witnesses, victims, their family members and other supporters.

All aspects of our work are subject to an Equal Opportunities policy and our service is offered equally to everyone who asks.

http://www.thepsu.co.uk