When you have a legal problem, ask yourself whether you may be able to resolve it without hiring a lawyer.
Disputes Tribunals are designed to settle problems in an informal and inexpensive setting. All parties are specifically barred from having legal representation (although a lawyer may advise you beforehand).
Community Law Centres offer free legal advice and some will represent you in a dispute. (See the White Pages for your nearest local branch.) You'll also be able to get advice on some problems from your local Citizens' Advice Bureau.
For free, plain-English guides to your legal rights on a wide range of topics, visit our Legal Rights section.
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