Civil disputes
Resolving your civil dispute
If you have a civil dispute with an individual or organisation for between $15,000 and $200,000, you will usually go to the District Court.
This does not mean that you will have to have a court hearing. The District Courts Rules have been reformed to help people resolve their disputes without needing a court hearing.
The District Court is also the place to go if you want to apply for a restraining order against someone. A restraining order can provide you with protection if you are being harassed.
Getting help
You can make or respond to a claim, or apply for a restraining order, with the help of a lawyer or by yourself.
The Law Society can provide contact information for lawyers. Community law centres, legal aid and citizens advice bureaux are also available to help people who want to file a claim or apply for a restraining order themselves.
