Where do you need to go?
Finding your courtroom and making sure the court officer knows you are there.
19.1The night before
Online Registry
The NSW Online Registry lists every matter for the next day with its courtroom. Search by your name or the court case number from the CAN. Check it the evening before and again in the morning, because courtroom allocations move. If your matter does not appear, it is usually a data lag, not a sign the matter has vanished. Attend anyway.
19.2In the building
The list
Inside the entrance, usually near the registry counter or on screens, is the daily list: every matter, alphabetical by surname, with a courtroom number. Find your name, note the courtroom, and go there. If you cannot find your name, ask at the registry counter with your CAN in hand. Do not leave the building on the assumption you are not listed.
19.3Register with the court officer
The most important step
Inside the courtroom, or just outside its door, is the court officer with a clipboard or tablet. Go to them before you sit down. Give your full name and say you are appearing for yourself. Until the court officer has marked you present, the court does not know you are there, and a matter with no appearance can be dealt with in your absence.
Good morning. My name is [full name]. I'm listed today and I'm representing myself. Is there anything you need from me before my matter is called?
The court officer may ask whether you are pleading guilty and whether you are ready to proceed, because it helps them order the list. Answer accurately. Matters with lawyers usually go first; self-represented pleas usually go after; anything needing a hearing goes last. You are likely to wait.