1. Know the Rules
Court Rules
Familiarise yourself with:
Federal Circuit and Family Court RulesPractice DirectionsCourt forms and proceduresWhere to Find Them
- FCFCOA website
Registry staff (can answer procedural questions)Self-help resources2. Be Organised
Documents
- Keep copies of everything
Organise chronologicallyIndex your documentsBring multiple copies to courtTimelines
- Note all deadlines
Calendar important datesFile documents on time3. Focus on the Law
What Matters
Courts decide based on law, not emotions. Focus on:
Relevant legal principlesEvidence supporting your caseWhat the legislation saysWhat Doesn't Help
- Attacking your ex personally
Ancient history unrelated to the issuesWhat you think is "fair" vs what the law says4. Present Evidence Properly
Written Evidence
- Must be in affidavit form (sworn statement)
State facts, not opinionsBe specific about dates and eventsDocumentary Evidence
- Attach to affidavits
Only include relevant documentsExplain what each document shows5. Be Respectful in Court
To the Judge/Registrar
- Address as "Your Honour" (Judge) or "Registrar"
Stand when speakingDon't interruptTo the Other Party
- Don't speak directly to them
Address through the judgeStay calm no matter what they say6. Prepare for Hearings
Before the Day
- Review all documents
Plan what you'll sayAnticipate arguments against youPrepare questions for cross-examinationOn the Day
- Arrive early
Dress respectfullyBring all documentsHave water and notes7. Use Available Resources
Free Help
- Duty lawyer services (at court)
Legal Aid advice linesCommunity legal centresSelf-represented litigant coordinatorsPaid Help
- Unbundled legal services (lawyer for specific tasks)
Document review services8. Keep Records
Document everything:
Court dates and outcomesConversations (date, time, substance)Compliance or non-compliance by other partyYour children's situation9. Consider Settling
Why Settle
- Court is expensive (time, stress)
Outcomes uncertainYou control the outcome in settlementBetter for childrenHow to Settle
- Attend FDR genuinely
Consider mediationMake reasonable offersFocus on interests, not positions10. Know When to Get Help
Consider getting a lawyer if:
The matter is complexHigh-value assets involvedSerious allegations (violence, abuse)You're overwhelmedThe other party has a lawyerEven limited advice can be valuable.
