What should be a straight forward directions appointment in chambers will for many seem like being 'on trial' and you may feel the odds are stacked well against you. With broader public awareness that transsexual people are getting now days, people realise we are not unusual or weird and that fact seems to be slowly getting through and is having its effect on the British Judicial System. By preparing your case carefully, and taking care to present a good image to the court, you can help those involved to overcome any negative preconceptions they may have about trans people. Make sure that all the evidence which could be useful in your case such as dates, correspondence, and statements are all in order and thoroughly prepared beforehand. If possible, it is also a good idea to go through it all with a sympathetic friend to check that you have included everything that could help, and that it is all clearly ordered.
Personal preparation is most important prior to going to court.
It may be tempting to try to defuse any fears the court may have about trans people by presenting in your former gender, but this is not advisable. The court will be aware that you are trans, so this will only give the impression that you are uncertain or insecure about your gender. By presenting confidently as yourself, you can demonstrate that being trans does not present a problem regarding your parenting skills or how others relate to you and indeed you can successfully relate to others in your true gender. Having said that, follow the dress code of the establishment, this is a formal occasion. For trans women, wear a dark suit and light coloured plain blouse.