You should never be 'represented' by a friend who is not knowledgeable about the benefit you are claiming and the appeal process. In such circumstances it should be made clear to the Tribunal Clerk that he or she is present as a companion, or a witness if you would like them to speak.
If you are represented the Judge will not be required to examine certain issues unless they are raised by your rep, which they would otherwise be obliged to look at. This is why a bad rep can actually harm your chances of success.
Last edit: 14 years 1 week ago by cdcdi1911. Reason: grammar
Hi, From what Steve Donnison and Jima1 have stated on this site quite a few times, the Tribunals like to hear from the claimant direct. Ie, how their illness/disability affects their everyday life. and this seems to go along way in appeals being won. Best Wishes
