Representing yourself at the tribunal or in court will involve gathering evidence, keeping track of deadlines, following instructions, preparing documents and explaining your case clearly.
Gather evidence
Your case will be stronger if you have relevant, credible and admissible evidence that supports key facts, meets legal requirements and satisfies the civil standard of proof: the balance of probabilities.
Directions (instructions)
Read each letter or direction (instruction) carefully. It may tell you what to send, when to send it and how many copies are needed.
If you cannot find a document or provide something you’ve been asked for, tell the tribunal or the other side as soon as possible. Do not wait until the hearing.
Important
Failure to comply with a court or tribunal direction can have serious consequences for your case so it is important that you comply with them. Contact the court or tribunal immediately if you are unsure what to do.
Case management hearing
A case management hearing is an early court appointment where a judge and the parties set timelines, review what evidence is necessary, narrow down the legal issues and issue directions (instructions).
Prepare a bundle
A bundle is a set of documents for the case. Put the documents in order, add an index and number every page so everyone can find the same information quickly during the hearing. You may need to provide the court with several copies of the bundle.
Document phone calls
If you speak to the court, tribunal or the other side by phone, write down the date, time, who you spoke to and the main points discussed.
Find out more about the process of managing a court or tribunal claim:
- Last updated:
- 21 September 2026
- Next review:
- 21 September 2028
Related content
How to take legal action at the County Court to resolve a leasehold dispute
Advice guideHow to resolve a leasehold dispute at a tribunal, including types of case, costs and the process
Advice guide