Going to court can be a nerve wracking experience, especially if you’ve never been a part of a court case before.
What they show in the movies and soap operas, isn’t always the best gauge as to what to expect when going to court!
Whether you’re the one pursuing a civil case or defending yourself, it is always beneficial to be organised and prepared – that way, you put yourself in the best position for your case and there will be less surprises during courtroom proceedings.
One of the ways you can be organised is to gain a better understanding on how and what to prepare for court.
TY Lawyers in Chatswood can assist you with the entire legal process as the team are experienced debt recovery lawyers, commercial lawyers, small business lawyers and litigation lawyers and have years of experience.
Here we discuss some of the practical steps you can take when preparing for court to help set you up for success.
Get Legal Advice
One of the ways you can assist yourself with your legal case is to obtain professional legal advice. This way you can get knowledgeable guidance on how to proceed with the case and what other preparation is required. A solicitor can also brief you on what you need to do and say during the court case and can help you understand your rights and how to plead.
Hiring a lawyer for your case means that your lawyer will speak for you at your court case and they will also assist you with what further evidence may be required for your case.
Consider Court Etiquette and Act Appropriately
There are numerous rules and protocols that need to be followed when attending a court hearing and you should always adhere to these. Court is a formal place and your behaviour whilst in the court is a reflection of you. Things like punctuality are of utmost importance. Showing up on time demonstrates you are taking the matter seriously and shows respect for the legal system.
Some of the other important things to remember in relation to how you behave in court:
Be Sure To Accurately Record Your Court Date, Location and Time
At the top of your CAN (Court Attendance Notice), your court attendance particulars will be shown. Ensure that you make note of these on your personal calendar – it’s really important you show up for court on the nominated time and day, otherwise the Judge or Magistrate might make a decision about you without you having an opportunity to have your say.
Failure to show up for court also gets recorded on your criminal record as ‘failure to appear’, which makes it harder for you to get bail in the future.
Ask For An Adjournment If You Need One
If there is any reason you cannot attend court on the nominated day and time, you should immediately inform the court in writing as to the reason why. If it is because you are unwell, an appropriate medical certificate should be obtained. Your lawyer can assist you with exactly what is required should you need an adjournment.
If Pleading Guilty, Arrange Character References
Organising character references if you are pleading guilty can help with the outcome of your case. This is a letter that’s written by another person about you who can speak for your good character traits. The references should in turn have good character, not have a criminal record and know that you are going to court and what for.
Make A List Of Things To Take To Court
You should bring along the following things to your court case:
Some people find it helpful to attend someone else’s court case to get a feel for how things will run and how to act. Consider doing this if you feel it will help prepare you further for your case. Courts are open to the public and you can find out when other cases are on by contacting the court for the relevant dates and times for upcoming cases.
Good legal representation can help calm your nerves and give you a good idea on how your case may run. TY Lawyers at Chatswood are experience solicitors assisting people and businesses in debt recovery cases, litigation cases, small business and commercial cases.
Contact TY Lawyers in Chatswood today for a personal discussion on your situation. Call: 02 8007 0135 today.