This DVD explains how to prepare and appear in a criminal and civil trial. Lawyers are expensive and legal aid is not always available. It is now common for people in Australia to appear in court unrepresented in criminal, civil and family law cases. Courts can be intimidating and the law complex, an unrepresented person has little chance of success. This DVD provides a practical, step-by-step approach as it follows a young man and woman through a criminal and civil trial.

This is a practical resource for students, teachers and individuals going to court on their own. It can form part of the school syllabus, community organization, library service or training program.

Topics:

Preparing for Trial – researching the law, preparing your arguments, taking witness statements
Deciding to plead guilty or not guilty – negotiating with the prosecution, a plea in mitigation
Deciding to settle – a statement of claim, notice of defence
Evidence – examination-in-chief, cross-examination, re-examination
The trial, who goes first, the standard of proof, how to give evidence
What are the essential elements of the case against you and how do you answer them
Presenting submissions
The decision of the court
Penalties and court orders