What to do when you arrive

Find the right courtroom

When you arrive at the NSW Children's Court, you need to check with registry staff which courtroom your case will be heard in. Many court registries have more than one courtroom.

Some courts will have support workers available outside the courtrooms to help you find the right place to go. You can also go to the court registry office and ask for assistance.

Role of court officers

Go to the courtroom where your case is listed and let the court officer know that you have arrived. Court officers will often wear a red badge and will be going in and out of the courtroom calling names and checking who is there. You should not enter the courtroom until you are called.

The court officer will tell you where to wait and can let you know where to go to see the duty lawyer.

Be sure to tell the court officer if you are leaving the area at any time so your case is not heard without you. If a lawyer is representing you, find your lawyer and work out where to wait until your case is called.

Staying safe at court

If you are at court for an apprehended violence application, you may be able to wait in a safe room.

Check with a court officer if there is a safe room or any court support service staff who can assist you.

You may find the Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services helpful.

To locate a list of Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service locations in NSW, see: Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Program

When will your case be heard?

The judicial officer decides the order of cases.  You should avoid making other appointments on the day you go to court. You may also need to make appropriate child care arrangements as you may be at court for a number of hours.

The court officer will call your name when it is time for your case to be dealt with.