We believe that Court proceedings are a costly (financially and emotionally) and ineffective way of resolving Family disputes and should be considered as a “last resort” after all other methods of dispute resolution have been exhausted.

Should you find yourself engaged in Family Court proceedings, we have the experience and skills necessary to ensure that you will receive the very best representation.  

Although Family Law proceedings may be commenced in the Local Court, most matters will be determined in the Family Court or the Federal Magistrates Court.

Geographically, the Central Coast is located between the three main Family Court/Federal Magistrates Court Registries: Newcastle, Parramatta and Sydney.

Before Going to Court - What to Wear and Bring:

You are not expected to wear a suit but you should always dress neatly. Remember, going to Court is a serious and formal occasion.

Court days can be long days. Many matters are usually listed to be heard on the same day so you may be waiting a long time before your matter is heard. Always take a good book or magazine with you.

Court can also be a very intimidating and emotional place. A support person can be very beneficial. Choose an appropriate support person such as a calm close friend or relative. A “cheer squad” will not help your cause and could inflame your dispute.

Children and Court:

Unless your children are required to attend Court (for example to meet with a Court Counsellor for a Family Report), it is preferable that they do not attend. The Family Law Courts have very limited child-minding facilities. If you wish to use these child-minding facilities you should make direct arrangements with the Court well in advance of your Court attendance date.

Arriving at Court:

As you enter the Court Building you will be required to go through an “airport-style” security check system involving a walk-through metal scanner and baggage x-ray machine.

Cameras are not allowed in the Court Building and will be retained by security staff if brought into the Court Building. 

If you have any personal security concerns, please advise us well before your Court attendance date and appropriate arrangements will be made with the Court staff to ensure your safety.

Which Courtroom will you be in?

Where possible, we will contact you before your Court appearance to explain which Courtroom your case will be heard in. Sometimes this is not possible because Court lists are not always available. In these circumstances we will make alternative arrangements with you so that you can easily find your Courtroom. The Court Registry staff is also there to assist you.

Parking

It is advisable to arrange all-day parking of your vehicle on your Court days. Going to Court can be very stressful. You do not need to be distracted, worrying about the possibility of incurring a traffic infringement notice.