An essential guide offering specific assistance to litigants in person. It is said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step ... This book is your first step to understanding the options available to you and the themes and issues that you will encounter as you embark upon self-representation and the resolution of your family dispute. Breaking up is hard to do. It can also be a costly affair when you factor in legal fees. If you are looking to represent yourself in court or thinking about going directly to a barrister to save money, this book will de-mystify the legal process and arm you with the know-how and confidence to achieve a successful outcome. Written by a team of leading family law barristers, the book takes you through the process of splitting up, tells you what preparation is essential for court and helps you decide exactly when professional support is required. As well as chapters on the different aspects of divorce and separation, from children to financial remedies, the book includes essential concepts, a toolbox guide to the applications that can be made, sources for further research and tips and traps. What's in the book? Initial considerations Tips on how to think like a family lawyer Guidance on bringing the marriage/civil partnership to an end Instructions relating to preparing a case Information on areas such as advocacy, domestic violence, children and finances