Court registry staff manage the day-to-day operations of the court and assist parties with procedural and administrative matters.
They are impartial and can’t take sides in disputes.
They’re not permitted to provide legal advice, even if legally trained.
Below is a summary of what court registry staff can and can’t do.
What court registry staff can do
Court registry staff can assist with procedural guidance, administrative support, and referrals, including:
Court processes and forms
- explain how the court works, including practices, procedures, and case management steps
- provide blank court forms and guides to help you complete them
- check forms for completeness (e.g. signatures and attachments).
Fee and scheduling information
- provide details on applying for fee waivers or exemptions
- explain how to get a matter listed.
General information and referrals
- provide basic information about mediation, interpreters, and local support services
- refer you to organisations offering free or low-cost legal advice or assistance.
What court registry staff cannot do
Court registry staff cannot provide legal advice, case-specific guidance, or judicial support, including:
Legal advice and decision-making
- advise on your case, legal strategy, or whether to bring a matter to court
- recommend specific lawyers (refer to the Queensland Law Society).
Court papers and preparation
- draft, review or comment the contents of your court papers or affidavits
- advise what forms to complete – they can only provide copies of blank forms that you request and guides to assist you completing them
- tell you what to say in court or predict the court’s decision.
Judicial orders and communication
- explain or alter court orders
- facilitate direct communication with judicial officers outside of hearings.
