Free legal help launched for people in court without a lawyer as Sheffield students launch Court Helpdesk
Free help will be available for those who do not have a lawyer
Sheffield students have launched a court helpdesk for people without lawyers.
Students from Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield have launched a helpdesk to support people attending court without a lawyer.
The Sheffield Court Help Desk aims to help people understand court procedures, navigate legal paperwork and prepare for appearing before a judge.
The initiative has been set up in response to the number of people representing themselves in court, known as litigants in person.
In 2012, legal aid was removed from large areas of civil, family, and private law, as a result of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012.
From 2012 to late 2026, the proportion of litigants in person (LIPs) navigating courts without a lawyer has effectively doubled in private family court matters and grown by nearly 50% in civil court proceedings.
Students from both universities will receive training and supervision from Dr Goldie Millan, a senior lecturer in law at Sheffield Hallam University, to become McKenzie Friends.
McKenzie Friends can provide support to people representing themselves in court, helping them understand documents and procedures.
Dr Millan, who is supervising the project, said: "For many people, attending court can be a daunting and confusing experience, particularly without professional legal representation.
"The Sheffield Court Help Desk aims to provide a welcoming point of assistance and guidance, helping court users feel more informed and better prepared."
She said the partnership would allow students to put their legal knowledge into practice while helping people who might otherwise find the court process overwhelming.
Dr Emma Jones, senior lecturer in law and director of Sheffield Digital Justice at the University of Sheffield, said: "It is great to be collaborating with Sheffield Hallam on a new initiative that has the potential to benefit not only students, but also Litigants in Person who are struggling with navigating the court system."
The project will also give students practical experience of working with court users, helping them develop communication, problem-solving and professional skills.
Both universities said the initiative reflected their commitment to improving access to justice and supporting the local community.