Some courts have a noticeboard that displays the matters being heard each today. If you are here for yourself, then look for your name. If you are here for your company, look for your company name. The list will usually be in alphabetical order according to your surname or your main family name, or the company name. Next to your name, you will see the number of the courtroom that you are required to go to. It is important that you are on time.
If there is no noticeboard or you cannot find your name, then ask a staff member to tell you where your court case is being heard.
Once you have found where your case is being heard, you can either wait outside the courtroom, or inside it. There are many different cases heard every day, both criminal and civil. You may need to wait for some time before your case is heard.
Some courts are very busy, and it is important that you listen for your name or your company’s name once you are in Court or in the courthouse. A loudspeaker may be used in the courthouse. If you are waiting outside the courtroom, you should avoid using headphones so you can hear your name being called.
If you think you need an interpreter to help you understand what is being said in your case, there is more information here.
If you do not have a lawyer representing you in your case and you would like one, there is more information here.
Legal Literate is a plain English glossary website with definitions of common legal and judicial terms. It is designed for use by interpreters but may also be useful to court and tribunal users, staff, or to assist judicial officers in explaining legal terms.
The website contains more information about going to Court and court services. It also has a number of links to other helpful resources.