In March 2025, a sub‑committee of the Hertfordshire LFJB and the University of Hertfordshire Law Clinic (HLC) launched a pioneering initiative to support unrepresented parents attending private law children’s proceedings in Watford and Hertford.
The Hertfordshire Private Law Pro Bono Duty Scheme was created to ensure that litigants in person attending First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointments (FHDRAs) receive timely, focused legal advice to resolve matters where possible.
The Scheme has quickly become a helpful part of the local justice landscape.
At the centre of its development and early success has been NLS Supervising Solicitor, Attia Hussain, who proposed the Scheme and, together with Ms Thurston and Ms Delaney, coordinated its planning and implementation. Their work transformed a complex idea into a functioning, impactful pro bono service.
Many parents attending FHDRA hearings face the court process alone, often without the knowledge needed to understand their options or present their case effectively in order to try and resolve matters.
The Duty Scheme provides:
- Free, one‑off legal advice from qualified solicitors or legal executives for First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointments
- Support for court staff, helping hearings run more smoothly and efficiently.
- Experience and learning for UH Law students, who triage clients, observe advice sessions, and develop essential professional skills.
Feedback from the pilot has been overwhelmingly positive. Participating firms have reported that the Scheme not only aligns with their values but also enhances their visibility within the community.
Since its launch, the Scheme has:
- Assisted litigants in person
- Provided law students with hands‑on experience in client care, professional responsibility, and family law practice.
- Benefited from strong support from court staff, particularly ushers and clerks who have helped secure space and facilitate logistics.
The Scheme has already demonstrated its value not only to litigants but also to the legal community and the next generation of practitioners.
The Hertfordshire Private Law Duty Scheme is now firmly established as a model of effective partnership between the legal profession, the courts, and legal education. Its success is a testament to the dedication of the solicitors who volunteer their time, the enthusiasm of UH law students, and the commitment of the court staff who support the Scheme.
As the Scheme moves into its second full year, its growing impact on access to justice and on the development of future lawyers continues to strengthen the fabric of the local family justice system.
Attia extends her thanks to her co-chairs, the students and all the volunteers from a wide range of local firms, without whom the scheme would not be the success it is today.
If you are a parent or carer seeking guidance in private law or public law children, you can contact our team for confidential advice and support. Whether you need help understanding the court process, preparing for a hearing, or exploring your options, our experienced family law practitioners are available to assist.
