self representation in court

datostar

francespoggle wrote: »

It's been really helpful reading everyone's comments.

I have just been advised by my solicitor that she cannot represent me next Wednesday for personal reasons. She has advised that I self-represent. It is only a directions hearing and I have been to court 3 times before, but I'll admit to suddenly feeling a little nervous about going it alone. In the past I've always attended with a solicitor or barrister. My understanding is that barristers are NOT required for direction hearings and that I will be able to speak directly to my ex's solicitor before the hearing to try and thrash out what he want's (he's forced the hearing).

Don't worry if a barrister does turn up. They're often cheaper by the hour than a solicitor partner and they do tend to waffle more, giving you plenty of time to respond.

muffintop

francespoggle wrote: »

Recently, my ex has employed an au pair and I, as I, under the terms of parental responsibility have asked him to provide references, CRB checks, details of clean driving licence etc about this carer. He has refused, citing that he is not obliged to provide any details. It concerns me that this person will change every 4 to 6 months and I want reassurance that the carers are suitably qualified and have been carefully checked. The current carer is not even fluent in English.

Au pairs aren't usually fluent in English - they specifically come to the UK to learn English and the best way of doing so is by being part of a family, looking after children and doing basic chores. Your ex is likely to have got the au pair through an agency who will have done the relevant checks you seek. He should provide you with the agency details, but that is all, really. It is not for him to carry out the checks.