Dress SMART.
Take pen & paper with you, if the other side says something that is incorrect, make CAREFUL note of it and when it is your turn bring it up - DO NOT TRUST TO MEMORY - ADRENALINE IS PUMPING, YOU WILL FORGET. Also, at the very end, make careful note of the outcome.
Keep very calm and relaxed. Take plenty of deep breaths before you go in.
Never interrupt the other side, or the judge, or Magistrates depending where you are. You will be given your chance later - in fact you will be asked if you have anything further to say.
Don't mumble. Speak clearly and precisely - no umms & ahh's, don't be flustered.
Don't repeat yourself.
Be totally objective, do not stray into subjectivity - it doesn't help.
If the solicitor for the other side attends he will almost certainly, before the hearing, approach you on a fishing trip. Listen politely and when asked a question, simply say you prefer to say nothing and leave it to the court. See Note below**
DO NOT accept promises of payment without going into court.
Be prepared! - make careful note of the points you wish you raise. More cases are lost through bad or unprofessional preparation. Assemble your correspondence files with the most recent letters or documents at the top.
** If an opponent solicitor tries handing you documents, politely decline.
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