The courts

Learn what happens in court if you’re asked to serve on a jury, appear as a witness, or if you’re being charged with an offence. Know your rights if you’ve been arrested and get legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.

  • Jury service

    If you're enrolled to vote, you can be asked to serve on a jury once every 2 years.

  • Your rights after being arrested

    When you’re arrested, you have the right to get legal help before you say or do anything. You don’t have to make a statement, but you do have to tell the police some basic information about yourself.

  • Legal aid

    If you cannot afford to pay for a lawyer, you can apply for legal aid.

  • Going to court as a witness

    If you're asked to give evidence in court, you’ll have to swear to tell the truth and answer any questions the judge says you have to answer.

  • Appearing in court

    You’ll first appear to enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, you’ll appear again at a later date. If you plead guilty, you’ll either be sentenced immediately or appear later for sentencing.

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