Freedom of Information

[dragongiraffe]

As a brain injury patient, on benefits, I cannot afford a solicitor & would prefer to put my own case anyway. Currently in dispute with my local authority, can I, in effect, appoint myself as my legal adviser and demand access to all relevant & personal information relating to myself & my argument?

[ayabrea38]

Can you not get legal aid?
But I would of thought that you where entitled to ask for any papers,as when you have a legal rep,they have to have your permission anyway dont they?

[Buenchico]

The Freedom of Information Act does not give the right to obtain any personal information held about yourself:
http://www.ico.gov.uk...ur_right_to_know.aspx

However the Data Protection Act does:
http://www.ico.gov.uk.../data_protection.aspx

Neither Act requires you to go through a solicitor (or other representative) to obtain relevant information. You are always free to represent yourself (or, more accurately, to 'act in person') in any legal case, whether that be in a civil dispute (such as yours) or facing a trial for murder.

Chris

[dragongiraffe]

Dear ayabrea38 & Buenchico. Thank you both for your clarity. Whilst I'm pretty sure I would qualify for legal aid, I suppose I've got this inherent "sadism" that gets more from fighting my own corner.
Besides there's a theory that, by not being legally qualified, if one readily acknowledges that & requests a Court's guidance, you tend to be allowed to get away with more! (Just a theory, 'though!).
Thanks again & take care