New Pro Bono Scheme launched for unrepresented parties in the Commercial Court and LCCC

Advocate is proud to announce the launch of the Commercial Court and London Circuit Commercial Court (LCCC) Pro Bono Scheme, a collaborative initiative designed to support litigants in person (LIPs) appearing before these specialist courts.

Backed by the Judges in Charge of both the Commercial Court and the LCCC, the Scheme is a joint effort between Advocate, COMBAR, Pro Bono Connect, and the courts themselves. It aims to provide free legal representation to individuals who would otherwise be unrepresented in interim hearings (including case management conferences) and trials lasting up to one week. 

Barristers with post-pupillage commercial experience and members of COMBAR have volunteered to act pro bono, offering their expertise at short notice. Where appropriate, solicitor support may also be arranged through Pro Bono Connect. The Scheme will run as a pilot for 18 months starting 1 November 2025.

This initiative reflects Advocate’s ongoing commitment to ensuring access to justice for all, regardless of financial means. We are grateful to our partners and the judiciary for their support in making this Scheme possible.

Please contact Maya, our Schemes and Programmes Coordinator, at commercialscheme@weareadvocate.org.uk if you are interested in volunteering with the scheme. 

Find out more about the partner and on-the-day duty schemes we work with.