Child Arrangement DRA hearing - do I need legal representation?

Dear friends

Can you please help me decide if I should use a lawyer or self represent? My regular lawyer has had to pull out at the last minute due to a medical appointment. Should I bring someone new in or not?

I have a First Dispute Resolution Appointment at the end of Aug on a child arrangements matter. I was represented at the previous (and only) hearing at the beginning of 2023 my long standing lawyer (who has seen the issues pan out over the months) did add value and together we prepared a position statement which has been submitted to the court. The other party is self representing

The main issue is that my 11 year old does not want to spend any time with me and I have not see him for a year. There is another issue about me and my ex not agreeing to what secondary school he should attend.

Unfortunately the CAFCAS report which I received this month has recommended a very gradual contact of only a few hours every two weeks with no overnight stay until March 2024 (I agree it should be gradual, but a few hours is not enough time to rebuild).....they have NOT recommended shared contact "at this time" (I disagree with this and the basis they have used)...they have been vague and non-committal about schools and recommended mediation (I disagree with this, as I want certainty on what school he attends not more mediation)

I am also mindful that it is unlikely the judge will go against the CAFCAS report.
Given this is there any value for a (new) lawyer to be present at the August Hearing, or should I just go myself (my ex has been self representing and will be going by herself)

Thank you