How To Represent Yourself in Family Court (How2Become) Paperback – April 1, 2013

I first purchased this book on amazon for $24. I then noticed it was free on kindle and I promply got a refund which was good. Unfortunately it doesnt state anywhere that this is for British readers; hence its not useful for someone living in the US. Although the book has some valid points they mainly speak to people without any degree or low intellect. I was looking for a more specific approach how to prepare and execute a successful trial by yourself.

Its written for the UK not the US therefore the rules are different and was not useful for me as I live in US

I found very good clear advice. This is for UK but found advice universal in these situations . It was easy to read and understand.

This book is written in an easy to read, engaging and relaxed style. The author writes as if he is in the same room having a conversation with the reader rather than in the format of an instruction manual that has too many words and tasks to do. Each chapter was succint and specific. This clear straight talking guide with case examples serves as a worthy reference that I can pass on to friends,colleagues and clients alike who may just need it handy when faced with problems that cannot be resolved without going to court. This book alleviates the fear of going to court because it provides a brief but concise account of the family court process. This is therefore helpful when one's anxiety can get in the way of thinking clearly about the challenge ahead. I appreciated the chapter on good parenting as it will help parents to think before they act vindictively towards the other parent. The chapter on Verbally Representing Yourself in Court was also positive encouraging reflection on issues concerning difference and stereotypes that can operate unconsciously through ones prejudice and lack of understanding. Knowledge of the different court orders and forms needed will alleviate confusion and exasperation. This handy little book will be a useful addition in the confident hands of those preparing for the family court.

Do not be put off by the fact that this is a slim volume. It is fantastic. There are no wasted words and each chapter is clear and written in a conversational style. If you want something written for lawyers, look elsewhere. If you want something written for the rest of us then this is it. I ordered the book yesterday, it arrived first thing this morning. Now it is the end of the day and I have read and digested it. My solicitor charges £200 an hour and this book corresponds to less than 5 minutes of her time. I could say that this book has saved me thousands and it would not cover all I think of it. It is not focused on the technicalities ("fill in this form and then wait xx days" etc). Instead it is all about how to conduct yourself, how to have the right attitude, and above all how to direct your approach to making sure that you are thinking in a child centred way because that is what the Family Court is actually all about. That is the only way you are going to survive and succeed through the ordeal of the hearings.

A GOOD INSIGHT TO DIY COURT.

A clear, concise and at times humerus down to earth account of what you might expect from representing yourself in a Family Court. Delicately tailored to challenge your motives for seeking to take this pathway,Michael Watson writes on a level so his readers feel not only supported, but allowed to reflect on their strengths of parenting, knowing that this challenge may be the greatest that they have taken to date. I only wished this book was available many years ago when I embarked on this journey. I would not only have sailed through the process, but I would have been left with a bitter sweet and positive taste of the court process too.

Compared to some books on this subject, it's great value for money.It's in simple language and easy to read. And there are some good pointers about not falling into emotional debate.What i found by going to court unrepresented was that we were with the judge for 4 minutes and he was not at all interested in any factual evidence i had compiled. He made sweeping statements and did not allow the opportunity to present my arguement. He either ignored what the CAFCASS officer ahd told him, or she had relayed it very badly to him. The book implies a much more considered discussion than that which i experienced.