FLR(M)

Hi Reddit team, I have been on Spouse visa for the last 2.5 year now my extension is due in July 2026 and I fall into old rules where I only need to show £18,600 but my British Partner doesn't work But I am full time in permanent job where I earn £26000 annually. And I had previous history where I have been refused during my first spouse visa while I was in the uk reason was I was a overstayer for few days and had appealed against where I lost then they said I have to go back to get entry clearance which is exactly what I did I went out of country and got my spouse visa from outside now I don't know what should I do for my first extension should I hire Solictior because my case was complicated or should I apply by myself and also I'm on the only one Earning so I guess my wages should cover the home office requirements?

Any advice will be appreciated 👏