Representing yourself in the Planning and Environment Court

Representing yourself in the Planning and Environment (P and E) Court can be done with the right preparation. Whether you represent yourself or get help from a lawyer or agent, it’s important to know the court’s rules, processes, and what is expected of you. Ensure you consider your options before making a choice.

Options for representation

Lawyer or agent

If you prefer, you can have a lawyer or an agent (someone who isn’t a lawyer) represent you. For example, a group of residents starting an appeal might choose one person to act as their agent.
You don’t need a lawyer, but it’s a good idea to talk to one. They can help you understand if you have valid grounds to appeal, what steps to take, and the time limits involved.

Representing yourself

If you decide to represent yourself, you’ll need to do your own research, preparation, and investigation. You must also attend court when required. Keep in mind, this can take a lot of time.

Information for self-represented litigants

To assist people who wish to represent themselves, the P and E Court has produced Practice Direction 11 of 2023 - Self-represented Litigants (PDF, 241.1 KB). It explains what the court expects from people representing themselves.

Here are some key points from the Practice Direction:

Notifying the court

• If you are self-represented, you must notify the ADR Registrar and the List Manager by email immediately.
• Include all other parties in the email.
• Contact details:
  • ADR Registrar: PE.Registrar@justice.qld.gov.au
  • List Manager: DC-PEListManager@justice.qld.gov.au

Kit for self-represented parties

• Within five business days of notifying the court, you’ll receive an email with the Kit for Self-Represented Parties.
• The kit includes:
  • A copy of the Practice Direction.
  • A link to the court’s website with resources for self-represented litigants.
  • Information on accessing relevant laws and rules.

Communicating with the court

• You must copy all other parties into any emails sent to the court or court staff.
• Do not ask court staff for legal advice.
• For emails about case matters (not procedural requests), get consent from all parties before sending.

Court appearances

• You must appear in court on the first return date or for any reviews unless the judge allows otherwise.
• If you want someone to appear on your behalf, you must file a Notice of Appointment of Agent at least two business days before the court date.

More information

The Environmental Defenders Office offers The Community Litigants Handbook, which will help you understand some of the rules and procedures of the P and E Court.

Please note: The Handbook has not been updated to reflect the P and E Court’s recent Practice Directions. It is still a helpful guide but should be read with the new Directions.