The courts

Jury service

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

• Payment and costs for jury service

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 can't 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.

How the youth justice system works

If a child under 16 breaks the law, they can get legal help. What they’ll get depends on their age.

Find your local district court

New Zealand's 59 district courts deal with both criminal and civil matters. You can also pay fines at these courts.

Find your local high court

The High Court deals with the most serious cases and offences, and can impose higher sentences than other courts.