Your First Court Appearance
If you have been charged with an offence and given a court date, you are probably wondering what to expect. Most people have never been to court before and the uncertainty makes everything worse. This page explains what happens, step by step. If you want to speak to someone before your court date, call Sacha — she will tell you exactly where you stand.
What a First Appearance Actually Is
Your first court date is called a mention . It is short — usually only a few minutes. The purpose is not to decide your case. It is an administrative step where the court finds out whether you are pleading guilty or not guilty, and what needs to happen next. In most cases, the matter is adjourned (postponed) at the first mention — either for you to get legal advice, for the prosecution to provide…
Before Your Court Date
Get legal advice. You do not need to walk into court without knowing what is going on. Call Sacha before your court date — even the night before — and she will explain the charge, the likely process, and what your options are. If Sacha is representing you, she will handle everything from there. Read your paperwork. You should have received documents from the police — a complaint and summons, or a…
What Happens When You Get to Court
Arrive early. Give yourself at least 30 minutes before your listed time. You will need to pass through security screening at the entrance (bag check, metal detector). Find your courtroom. Check the court list — it is displayed on screens in the foyer or on printed lists at the entrance. Your name and courtroom number will be listed. If you cannot find your name, ask at the registry counter. If you…
What the Magistrate Does at a First Mention
The Magistrate works through the court list, calling each matter in turn. When your matter is called, the Magistrate will typically: Confirm your name Ask whether you have a lawyer (or note that Sacha is appearing) Ask whether you are entering a plea today or need an adjournment If adjourning — set a new date and confirm your bail conditions continue If you are pleading guilty — hear the facts and…
Should You Plead Guilty at the First Mention?
Not necessarily. And not without legal advice. An early guilty plea does attract a discount at sentencing — the court gives you credit for saving time and resources. But you should only plead guilty if you actually are guilty of the charge as the prosecution puts it, and if you have had proper advice about what the consequences will be. There are many situations where the right move is to wait:…
Bail at Your First Appearance
If you were given bail by the police (you signed bail paperwork and were released), your bail conditions continue when the matter is adjourned. You do not need to re-apply for bail at the first mention — you just need to attend court on the date listed. If you are in custody and appearing for the first time, the Magistrate will consider bail. This is where having a lawyer makes a real difference.…
What Happens After the First Mention
Your matter will either be: Adjourned — a new date is set, usually 3–6 weeks away. You leave court and continue on bail. In the meantime, Sacha obtains the brief of evidence, reviews it, and advises you on the best path forward. Finalised — if you plead guilty and the court deals with sentencing on the day. This is common for straightforward matters, particularly traffic offences and minor…