Disputes over money or property often end up in the courts. The following information provides information about civil proceedings to recover money or property and about fines.

Does someone owe you money?
Defending claims
Small Claims Division
General Division
Paying Fines


Does someone owe you money?
If Someone owes you Money or will not return your property, there are alternatives to going to court. This information sheet gives you details about options and deciding to go to court.

Community Justice Centres (CJC) provide free mediation to help reach agreements. The CJC factsheet provides you with information about Settling Small Claims Disputes by Mediation.

Defending claims
If you have received a Statement of Claim, this information sheet will give you information about what you can do.

Community Justice Centres (CJC) provide free mediation to help reach agreements. The CJC factsheet provides you with information about Settling Small Claims Disputes by Mediation

Small Claims Division
The civil jurisdiction of the Local Court is divided into 2 divisions. The Small Claims Division deals with claims that are less than $10,000. Hearings in the Small Claims Division are conducted by an Assessor or a Magistrate. Some cases can also be referred to mediation.

General Division
Claims over $10,000 (but less than $60,000), are determined in the General Division. Hearings in the General Division are conducted by an Arbitrator or a Magistrate.
Paying by instalments


Paying Fines
There are a number of options for paying fines in the Local Court. Payments can be made by:

• Cash
• Post (cheque or money order)
• EFTPOS at large Local Courts
• By Telephone - phone the Local Court with your credit card details (available at Courts with EFTPOS facilities)