Justice

Dealing with a tribunal or the justice system can feel stressful and overwhelming.

There are dyslexic difficulties, such as poor concentration and memory and a difficulty in being concise, which could put a dyslexic person at a real disadvantage in the court system. Therefore a person with dyslexia can receive Reasonable Adjustments.

Reasonable Adjustments

In a court these could include:

• Regular breaks to restore concentration
• A helper or support worker to help check understanding
• An assistant to facilitate notes to counsel during the proceedings
  

Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) have Reasonable Adjustments Guidance, updated in 2013 to cover all Specific Learning Difficulties.

Reasonable Adjustments should, in the first instance, be discussed with the solicitor. Once agreed, they must be submitted to the court in good time. This may give rise to a case management hearing in order to determine what provisions will be available on the day.

To find a court or tribunal visit: https://courttribunalfinder.service.gov.uk/

More information

Coping with Courts & Tribunals: A Guide for Dyslexic Individuals and those with Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia Consultancy Malvern, 2014) is a good source of information and advice.

You'll find information on:

• Police custody
• Preparations for court/tribunal hearings
• Legal aid and sources of advice
• Bankruptcy proceedings
• Jury service
• Alternative approaches to resolving disputes
  

Access to Justice, Melanie Jameson, Dyslexia Consultancy Malvern (2017)