How do defendants representing themselves do mitigation?

[Unreal]

I've done it. Turning up dressed like one of the solicitors not the various scallywags is a great start. Showing remorse and apologising for taking up the court's time worked. They are dealing with utter scumbags all day long so a bit of effort can help them to differentiate you and create some empathy. Most of us have broken the law but only a minority end up in court. I'm sure magistrates know that and can sympathise and empathise with good citizens who have made a mistake and are putting their hands up to it. The pillock in the road rage case was a classic example of how not to do it.