Do I need to use an immigration lawyer to apply for FLR (FP)?

[pointo]

Please I need your help.
I'm an overstayer by over a year on a tier 1 visa (tried to switch to a discretionary visa while still in status due to low points but was refused as my grounds for application was outside the rules).
Anyway, I now want to apply for FLR (FP) as parent of a child 10 year route.
On paper, I qualify for this route based on the general requirements.
Money is really tight and I don't have the almost £1k to pay a lawyer.
Is there any advantage to using a lawyer to apply in my case.
If I apply on my own, would I be setting myself up for rejection?
Your advice would be very much appreciated.
Thank you.

[CR001]

Which Tie 1 category visa did you hold and did you apply for?

How long have you been in the UK?

What is your full UK immigration history?

Are you named on the childs' birth certicate?

Are you in a relationship with the child's other parent?

[pointo]

Hi CR001,

Many thanks for your reply.
Please see my response to your request.

I was on Tier 1 General and I applied for FLR(O) because I earned lower income than required (for ILR).
The FLR application was based on the advice I reveived from Home office. I contacted them to explain some personal circumstances as soon as I realised I would struggle to meet the ILR requirements. They suggested that I applied for FLR(O) when the Tier 1 ran out.
Unfortunately I applied without a lawyer or further advice so I didn't present my case well. In my application I basically was asking for more time to meet my ILR requirements (silly me) - hence the refusal.
Upon refusal, Home office requested for a statement of additional grounds which I sent to them (through a lawyer). They replied that they would consider it with a new application or if they decide to remove me (and my dependant).

I've been in the UK for 7 years.

Initial Tier 1 in 2010 - extended in 2012.

I am named on my child's birth certificate.

I'm a single parent (always have been) and not in a relationship with the child's other parent.

Please if you need more information, kindly let me know.
I look forward to your reply.
Thanks a lot for your assistance.