Should I do a DIY Divorce

When resources are limited doing the actual divorce yourself and even representing yourself in children cases where there isn't that much law involved makes sense. The finances are different and I'm with Mike. If it isn't possible to agree between yourselves and one party doesn't cooperate litigating in person can be a false economy.

There is a lot that can be done to use solicitors efficiently - using books, the internet as well as the solicitor to educate yourself to enable you to make informed decisions; remaining realistic; collecting and organising information so it can be produced in a timely manner; keeping communication short and to the point; not using a solicitor as a counselor.

It is also possible to use a solicitor on an ad hoc basis for advice only, doing all the paperwork and representing yourself in court or litigating in person and then if matters aren't resolved before engaging a solicitor for the final hearing.

The problem with self representation when the finances are complex is generally litigants in person do not know the law, they have no experience in advocacy and there is only so much that can be gleaned from books.