Click anywhere on the banner to exit the page.
Press the shrink icon to the right to reduce this banner's size.
If you decide to go to court without a lawyer, you’ll be expected to do all the things a lawyer would usually do.
You’ll have to:
You may find it hard to represent yourself against your ex-partner or other whānau members. You’ll need to stay calm in the court room and be polite to the judge, court staff, and other parties.
There are some rules for the courtroom that everyone must follow.
Any documents you file in court must be written clearly (preferably typed) and served to all the other people involved with the case.
Only under very special circumstances will you be able to give new information to the judge on the day of the court hearing. It’s important that your affidavit matches what you’ll say in the courtroom.
An affidavit must be set out in numbered paragraphs. It must also be sworn or affirmed in front of an approved witness. All exhibits need to be attached to the affidavit.
During a court case, witnesses may be asked to come to the courtroom and tell the judge what they have seen or heard. When you represent yourself in court, you may be expected to question your own witnesses and cross-examine other witnesses.
When you’re asking a witness questions, it’s important to:
You might find it helpful to talk to a lawyer before going to court, they can help you write your questions.
If you’re representing yourself at the Family Court, there is help available. A lawyer may help you understand complex court processes, or perform another role appointed by the judicial officer. You may also have a lay assistant take notes for you.
Court hearings can be complex. Even if you represent yourself at court, you can get legal advice at any time to help you prepare.
Going to Family Court can be hard. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. There are services available to help and support through this time.
Visit our help page