What to do on the day

Knowing what to expect at the courthouse may help you feel more confident and prepared. Courthouses can be busy, and cases may not run exactly on time.

Have your documents ready

• Your court application, summons, or notice of motion
• Any financial documents (such as bank statements or affidavits)
• Photo ID like your passport, driver's licence or public services card
• Helpful tip: keep a photo of your court document on your phone
• Do not leave documents with anyone who is not part of your case.

When you arrive

• Some courthouses have security screening - allow extra time just in case
• Dangerous or restricted items may be taken from you temporarily
• Not all courthouses have reception desks - go to the waiting area
• Use display screens or signs to find your courtroom, or ask court staff

Callover and delays

• Your case might not be heard at the listed time
• Stay close to the courtroom - you may be called at short notice
• Civil hearings are usually in public; family hearings are private (in camera)

Facilities and expectations

• Refreshments are not available in most courthouses
• Courthouses do not have childcare facilities
• Do not bring food or chewing gum into courtrooms
• Mobile phones must be off or on silent - recording is not allowed

Meeting your solicitor

If you have legal representation, you may want to arrange a time and place to meet before your hearing

Support person

• You can bring someone for moral support
• In some case types (such as domestic violence), the judge may decide if that person can stay in the courtroom

Video: Attending court

• Watch our short video on what to expect when you arrive, where to go, how cases are called, and who can accompany you