Legal Support Students

The Legal Support Students Project provides crucial assistance to unrepresented litigants in court proceedings in Leicester. Student volunteers who are also trained as Mckenzie friends, attend court hearings at Leicester County Court and Leicester Magistrates Court in support of litigants who either cannot afford legal representation or are not eligible for legal aid.

 

The project is vital due to the increasing numbers of self-represented litigants due to the significant cuts to legal aid. Our student volunteers provide support in several ways, through taking notes, assisting with form filling, and providing essential emotional support throughout the court process. Litigants in family proceedings face complex issues which consequently produce high stress levels and emotions, even the smallest acts of support such as giving directions or explaining the proceedings can make a powerful impact to these individuals lives.

 

All volunteers receive extensive training, as well as additional training and support from solicitor partners and court staff. This project provides students with an in-depth understanding of family law and the court proceedings while developing critical problem-solving skills and strengthening their communication under pressure.

 

Students who work within the project gain an insight into real world problem solving and gives them the opportunity to apply the basis of their legal knowledge to real life situations. The project also offers networking opportunities with other students across different years, practicing solicitors and members of the judiciary.

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Any questions or inquires can be directed to the Director: Holly Blatcher. 

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