Cases are brought to the civil court by individuals or organisations and sometimes local or central government to help settle a dispute. Civil cases are usually about people’s rights.
Generally, civil cases are not about breaking a criminal law. Criminal cases are brought to the court by the state or government to maintain law and order to protect society.
Civil court cases can be about:
The Disputes Tribunal hears claims that are for less than $30,000.
Find out more about the types of disputes the Disputes Tribunal can help you with(external link)
The District Court hears civil claims for less than $350,000. The claims often involve arguments over money and property and can include complex commercial transactions.
Find out more about the types of civil cases you can take to the District Court
The High Court hears civil claims that are complex or for over $350,000. The claims often look at issues like company law, bankruptcy, the administration of estates and trusts, property transfer and land valuation.
Find out more about the types of civil cases you can take to the High Court
You might want to talk to a lawyer. If you can’t afford a lawyer you may be able to get:
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