Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Often through no choice of their own, they must represent themselves at a moment that could determine the rest of their life. They may face divorce, eviction from their home, or their children being removed. In an unfamiliar courtroom, up against a party with legal representation, the process can be stressful and confusing.
We stand with those who have nowhere else to turn. We provide a free service across England and Wales, offering support and guidance before, during, and after court. Our 600+ volunteers help people without representation navigate a complex legal system with dignity and self-assurance. We can’t give legal advice but we help people to understand the court process, prepare what they need to say in court and attend hearings with people. Last year, we provided over 50,000 sessions of support.
“I and every one of my colleagues will have experienced a hand on the shoulder from a client emerging from court to be told, ‘I could not have done that without you.’” (Paul, a volunteer in Manchester)
Our free service relies on donations to enable us to provide this life changing support. A network of amazing organisations help make our work possible. An easy way for law firms to help people facing court alone is to donate any residual client balances. In 2014, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) increased the limit of unclaimed funds from £50 to £500 which can be paid to charity without SRA permission.
A donation of just £50 donation to Support Through Court can help provide a trained volunteer to support up to two people through the court system and make a huge impact on their lives. We can offer indemnity on any donations of residual funds. For more information please see: supportthroughcourt.org/company
ROYAL COURTS OF JUSTICE,
STRAND, LONDON, WC2A 2LL
TEL: 0300 400 0143
