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<p>Parties with no legal representation are not a new phenomenon in our courts. Judges
are used to helping persons with no legal representation, including explaining procedures
and what is expected of them. We have taken steps to help people who either want or
have to represent themselves in court, particularly in the family court. On 23 October
we announced further support for separating parents and court users in civil and family
courts.</p><p>The new support will include:</p><p>· Improving online information so
that it is accurate, engaging and easy to find.</p><p>· A new strategy, funded by
the Ministry of Justice, and agreed with the legal and advice sectors which will help
to increase legal and practical support for litigants in person in the civil and family
courts.</p><p>· A new <em>‘Supporting separating parents in dispute helpline’</em>
pilot run by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass)
to test a more joined-up and tailored out-of-court service.</p><p>This package of
support will help provide separating couples and court users with the information,
advice and guidance they need to help settle disputes in the most appropriate and
proportionate way.</p><p> </p><p>However, it has not been possible to answer the question
within the timeframe as the information is being assembled from a variety of sources,
but I will write to the Honourable Member as soon as it is available. A copy of the
letter will be placed in the House Library.</p><p> </p>
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