This would be provided on a pro-bono basis by both solicitors and barristers. She is normally the first point of contact for unrepresented litigants. Some appear in court for the very first time without any documentation. If they can't express it themselves, then we will write it down. Where LIPs have not followed correct procedures, says Mrs Lloyd-Hart, judges will often adjourn cases for half an hour so that they can get help from CAB advisers.
Some LIPs receive help from other sympathetic lawyers.
Keir Starmer, a human rights barrister of Doughty Street Chambers, continues to provide free help and advice to both Mr Morris and Ms Steel. Mr Starmer gave the few hours of Green Form advice at the start of their case. After that no further legal aid is available in libel actions. Both defendants have had to get used to performing quickly a variety of legal tasks, from photocopying to cross-examination. In response to the growing numbers of DIY litigants, the National Council for Civil Liberties is publishing a guide to defending oneself in court.