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Overview
The courts are one part of New Zealand's response to crime, along with Police and Corrections. The courts are independent and impartial. Their role is to resolve legal issues, help enforce the law and provide people with access to justice.
What courts can do for victims
New Zealand has different courts that deal with different types of crimes. Learn which court deals with different types of cases.(external link)
The law can help provide protection from crime and accountability when harm has been done. For some people, engaging with the courts can be an important step toward safety and justice.
The court can:
- help provide protection by making legally binding orders to stop people contacting or hurting you
- hold people accountable by enforcing consequences for people who have committed crimes against you.
When going to court may help
Involving the courts can be helpful if:
- a situation has been ongoing for some time
- it causes distress or harm
- other non-legal solutions have not resolved the problem.
Getting support
It’s completely normal to feel unsure, anxious, or overwhelmed about engaging with the court process. The court system can seem scary, unfamiliar and complicated.
You don’t have to go through the court system alone. It’s important to get all the support you can if you are planning to go through the courts. If you’re considering taking a matter to court, it can help to:
- talk about it with someone you trust
- get advice from legal services
- look at help and support organisations for people affected by crime
- ask court staff if there are services that can guide you through the court process.
More information about organisations that can support you
Contact the Ministry of Justice Courts:
- freephone 0800 268 787.