What to Expect at Your First Court Appearance in New Zealand
If you’ve been charged with an offence and have a court date coming up, you’re probably feeling anxious, confused, and unsure of what to expect. That’s completely normal especially if it’s your first time in the criminal justice system.
The good news? You don’t have to do this alone.
At Anj Singh Law, I’ve helped hundreds of first-time offenders through their first court appearance calmly, clearly, and strategically. Here’s what actually happens on the day, and how to prepare.
1. Where and When Do I Go?
You’ll receive a summons or bail bond telling you the date, time, and location of your court appearance usually in the District Court closest to where the offence happened.
It’s critical to:
Arrive early (at least 30–45 minutes before your hearing)
Dress respectfully
Check in with court staff or the registrar when you arrive
If you have a lawyer (like me), I’ll meet you before we go in. If you don’t yet have one, you can still speak to the duty lawyer but it’s always better to be represented by someone who knows your full story.
2. What Actually Happens in Court?
Your name will be called in a courtroom filled with other cases. The judge will:
Read the charge(s)
Ask whether you’re represented by a lawyer
Ask whether you want to enter a plea (guilty or not guilty)
Consider whether bail is appropriate (if you're in custody)
If your lawyer needs time to review the police evidence, we can ask the judge to adjourn the case (delay it) so we can prepare.
You’re not expected to speak unless asked directly but you must be respectful, present, and listening.
3. What If I Don’t Know How to Plead?
That’s completely fine. In fact, it’s common.
If I’m representing you, I’ll likely advise that we don’t enter a plea immediately until I’ve reviewed:
The police summary of facts
Any evidence or disclosure
Your side of the story
Any defences or diversion options available
We can ask for an adjournment, and return once we’ve built a strategy.
4. Will I Go to Jail at the First Hearing?
For most first-time offenders, the answer is no especially if the charge is low to moderate in seriousness.
If bail is required, I’ll make submissions to the court explaining why you should be released and proposing reasonable bail conditions.
In more serious cases (e.g. violence, robbery, repeat offending), the police may oppose bail. That’s why having a lawyer involved before your first court date is critical.
5. What Happens After My First Appearance?
After your first court date, the real work begins. This may involve:
Reviewing police evidence
Exploring diversion, discharge, or plea options
Preparing for trial or sentencing
Gathering support letters or reports
Applying for name suppression, if needed
I’ll keep you informed every step of the way and make sure you’re not caught off guard.
First Time in Court? Get the Right Support.
You don’t need to know the legal system I do. What you need is someone to listen, plan, and protect your future.
📞 Contact Us Now if your first court appearance is coming up. The earlier we speak, the more I can do to help.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. For personalised advice, speak to a qualified criminal defence lawyer.
