Last year saw a 400% increase in people going to court without a lawyer to help them.

Going to court can be a daunting prospect at the best of times but what if you also have to represent yourself in front of a Judge and in the face of a hostile former partner? This can feel a very lonely business indeed.

So, where is the help?

Assuming that you have been to a MIAM (mediation information and assessment meeting) and mediation is not suitable, you will need help and support in court to complete your court application and someone to offer you practical and emotional support, when you go before the Judge.

Assuming, you cannot afford a solicitor and do not qualify for legal aid for legal advice, there is help at hand in the form of the PSU, the Personal Support Unit, and a variety of very good independent online resources from organisations such as AdviceNow.

The PSU also works in collaboration with Law Works, who is some instances offer Pro Bono (free) legal advice and assistance for those who cannot afford it.

There are currently 16 PSUs in 12 Cities including Exeter,  Devon where they have teamed up in collaboration with 32 volunteers, 29 of whom are from the Exeter University Law Department. The PSUA network is expanding every year, as the need grows and funds are available because they are a charity and need your help

These volunteers are on hand in court to help in a variety of ways between 0930-4.30 every day. Their aim is to help you to better represent yourselves. They cannot advise or act as your advocate but there are many other great ways they can help you to feel less vulnerable and anxious as you go about the business of representing yourself.

They understand the court forms, which they can help you complete. They also understand the court process, which they can explain to you, signposting you to other great resources, all of which empower you to better represent yourself. They can even sit with you in court and ensure that you hear and record important facts and decisions being made.

Around half of all cases they help with are private Children Act applications where parents simply cannot afford legal advice. The feedback from their support is fantastic. People generally feel reassured and relieved that they have someone to support them at these difficult times.

So, if you need to make a court application, please either telephone the local PSU or meet with one of their volunteers in court. They will be very happy to help you.

Good luck