If you Receive a Summons to Appear in Court

If out of the blue you find that you have a court appearance (as happened to a member recently) and you are not prepared as you did not receive any notification, do one of two things: If you can afford a lawyer visit one immediately or go to a legal aid office to apply for one. The member in question was advised by me to do the latter. Even before her application was accepted, the case was postponed. By law,

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO LEGAL REPRESENTATION IN A COURT OF LAW. DO NOT RELY ON THE OFFER OF THE COURT OF A LAWYER ON THE DAY. TOO LATE. HAVE THE CASE POSTPONED. This is a possibility in most cases where you do not have legal representation.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.