Making the Choice: Self-representation or Hire a Halifax Lawyer

Posted by harryjason on March 20th, 2016

Keep in mind that either of these two choices will have an impact on the outcome of your case, which can be for or against your favor in either case.

Self-representation                          

Yes, you can represent yourself in court, which means that you act as your own lawyer (self-represented). You will be required to submit the necessary documents, follow the rules of court, and comply with the requirements including deadlines, among other tasks related to the law. You should know the basics, if not the ins and outs, of family law in and its related rules and regulations as well as court protocol.

Many reasons can be given for the choice of self-representation, such as the inability to afford the services of a family lawyers Halifax, the disqualification for legal aid, or the perception that legal services are unnecessary. Even when you choose self-representation, you should still get legal advice, if and when necessary, such as when certain provisions become too complicated to handle on your own.

Legal Representation

While self-representation may work in a few cases, you have to remember that legal representation is still strongly recommended for the following reasons:

• The principles and practices related to family law are complicated, if not complex, by their innate nature. Lawyers study these aspects, acquire their licenses, and hone their knowledge and skills in real-life situations for several years in order to master them. You probably have little knowledge and skills in these matters, which will significantly and adversely affect your chances for a winning case.  

• The procedures and processes, including the papers, in a court of law are just as complicated. You have to master the basics about court protocol, acceptability of evidence, and even presentation of the case, all of which require intensive study beforehand.

The bottom line: You cannot just enter a courtroom where your family law-related case is being heard, say your peace about the matter including disputing the opposing party’s statements, and win the case, far from it. Your decision to hire competent and compassionate family law lawyers Halifax can in some cases help you with your case.