Do I have to have a representative at a tribunal?

efctoffee1988
efctoffee1988 Online Community Member Posts: 12 Listener
Hi I was just wondering do I need a representative like someone from citizens advice or is it perfectly fine to do it on my own ? What do representative's do ? Many thanks 

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    No, you don't need to have one but it can definitely help if you can find someone. Citizens Advice very rarely represent at Tribunal now so you will need to find another advice agency like Welfare Rights or a Law centre. Start here to see what agency is local to you. https://advicelocal.uk/
    A rep will prepare for your hearing by writing a submission, making sure all your evidence supports your claim, sending what needs to be sent to HMCTS, making sure everything in the "bundle" is correct etc etc.
    What they don't do is speak on your behalf, you will need to do that for yourself.
    The % of success rate is higher for those with representation than it is for those without it, though many many people attend a hearing without a rep and go on to have a decision in their favour.