Going to court

Arriving at the courthouse

• Check signs or screens for your courtroom. If unsure, ask at the office counter or the Court Garda.
• Some courthouses have security screening; where in place, items considered dangerous will be taken.
• You do not usually need to check in — listen for your case to be called or for the callover.
• If you have a solicitor, agree where to meet them.

Opening hours and lists

• See courthouse and court office opening hours
• For Circuit and High Court, check the legal diary for lists of cases to be heard
• If you don’t remember your date or time, contact the relevant court office

If you are worried about your safety

If you fear for your safety, contact the Courts Service before you attend. You may be able to wait in a separate area or use a protective screen.

Waiting for your case

Courts often start with a callover to check if cases are ready to proceed. You must be present for this.

• Know your case number and listen for it
• Cases may not run in the listed order and delays are common — make any arrangements if things run late
• If you step outside the courtroom, stay nearby so you can be called quickly
• Refreshments may not be available in waiting areas — come prepared

Civil law note: Hearings are generally public. Daily lists and callovers are typically read out in open court.

Family law note: Hearings are private (in camera). Cases are usually called by case reference number, your initials and a courtroom number.

Inside the courtroom

Dos

• Dress as you would for a job interview
• Stand when the judge enters and leaves
• Address the judge as Judge (or County Registrar when appropriate)
• Stand when speaking to the court
• Turn off your phone or set it to silent
• Take notes if needed

Don’ts

• Interrupt others or raise your voice
• Use your phone or record audio/video
• Eat, drink or chew gum

You will be guided on where to sit and when to speak. If you need a break, ask the judge. If you give evidence, you must swear or affirm to tell the truth.

If you are representing yourself, you will speak directly to the judge and answer the judge’s questions yourself.

Family law note: Attendance is restricted. In some situations (for example, domestic violence), you may ask to bring a support person. The judge decides if they may remain during the hearing.

People you may encounter in court

• Judge or County Registrar — leads the hearing and makes decisions
• Registrar — manages documents, calls cases, administers oaths
• Parties — applicant/claimant and respondent/defendant
• Solicitor / barrister — legal representatives (if engaged)
• Witnesses — if called to give evidence
• Assistant to the judge — may announce “all rise”
• Interpreter — if approved/required

Civil law

Members of the public and press may attend. A self-represented party may have a McKenzie friend for quiet support (they do not address the court).

Family law

Only people directly involved, court staff and persons permitted by the judge (for example, approved researchers or a support worker) may attend. Publication of reports is restricted to protect identities.

After court finishes

• The judge may give a decision immediately or reserve judgment
• There may be adjournments or further dates before a final decision
• If the case settles, it may be marked settled or struck out
• Orders or judgments are usually available from the court office

Family law note: Written orders are often sent by post after the hearing. Family proceedings can be sensitive — tell a staff member if you need help when leaving the courtroom.

Appeals

If you are unhappy with the decision, you may be able to appeal to a higher court. There are strict time limits. Seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Get help and support

• Legal advice and representation
• Mediation
• Money and debt supports
• Domestic violence and abuse support
• Family and parenting supports
• Advocacy and accessibility supports
• Citizens Information