How to represent yourself in court: don't say 'Aha!' For example, you are driving your car and you swerve to avoid something that runs out in front of you, causing you to hit a lamp post. If your case is that a tiger, rather than, say, a dog, ran in front of your car the judge will need some convincing that what you are saying is true. Lord Neuberger, the president of the Supreme Court, has warned the cuts to legal aid, intended to save £350m, could deny justice to the public. The Bar Council's "A Guide to Representing Yourself in Court" includes the following 10 tips: Resist the temptation to speak like lawyers on television. The guide advises: "Lawyers do not really speak like that. Some bad lawyers do, but judges hate it. Judges just want you to say what you mean in plain English. It recommends using simple, non-legal language as much as you can, and to speak in short sentences. Do not comment on the answers given. When the witness has given their answer, move on. It can be tempting to say "Aha!" or "That's right." Remember, you are only supposed to be putting your case. Don't argue with the witness. Save it for your closing submissions. You have made your point already, and if you start making arguments to the witness, you will give the witness a chance to come up with a better answer. Stop while you are ahead. Tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. You do not need to do anything more than give a simple, truthful answer. If you do not remember something, say so. If you try to blag it, you will be caught out. Make sure you speak loudly, slowly and clearly. Judges find it very frustrating when they cannot hear what you are saying. Speaking slowly is the hardest part. When you are nervous, you will find yourself wanting to speak faster than normal, so try and speak at about half of your normal speed. Know your limits. You are not expected to be a lawyer. The judge will try hard to think about the arguments that you would be making if you were a lawyer, so if you do not understand an argument or a decision, ask the judge to explain it to you. Bring stationery or a laptop so you can keep a careful note of everything said during the hearing. Post-it notes and highlighter pens may also come in useful. Bring a friend. If possible, ask someone you know and trust to come to court with you. They may be able to help you keep calm and focused, assist you in keeping your papers together, and help with taking notes. Make sure that all of your witnesses have arrived If you are have witnesses who support your case, make sure that they also arrive early. Dress for success: Dress as smartly as you can for court. If you have a suit (including a tie for men), then wear it. If you do not have a suit, there is no need to buy one specially.