Where I can sit with you
Most court hearings are open to the public, so a support person can usually sit in the public gallery. Some hearings are closed, and the court always decides who can be in the room. Wherever I'm allowed, I'll be there. Where I'm not, I'll wait outside and be with you the moment you come out.
If you're giving evidence as a witness, the court may allow special arrangements, such as a support person nearby. That's for the court to decide. If it might apply to you, ask the prosecutor, your lawyer or the court registry well before the day.
Courts and tribunals I attend
- Brisbane CBD: the Brisbane Magistrates Court at 363 George Street, the QEII Courts of Law at 415 George Street, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) at 259 Queen Street, the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission on Eagle Street, and the Commonwealth Law Courts on North Quay
- Sunshine Coast: the Maroochydore, Caloundra, Nambour and Noosa Magistrates Courts, and the District Court at Maroochydore
- Gympie: the Gympie Magistrates Court, where the District Court also sits on circuit
- Gold Coast: the Southport and Coolangatta Magistrates Courts, and the District Court at Southport
QCAT handles matters like minor civil disputes, tenancy and guardianship. Outside the Brisbane CBD, QCAT minor civil dispute matters are dealt with through local Magistrates Courts, so a QCAT hearing may well be at your local courthouse.
How I help on the day
- Preparation call. We go through the practical side: where to go, when to arrive, what to bring and what to expect, so nothing on the day is a surprise.
- Arrival. I meet you at the entrance, help you through security and find the courtroom and the list.
- Waiting. Court lists run late. I keep you company, handle water and food, and keep you calm while you wait.
- The hearing. I sit in the gallery where permitted and take notes of what's said and decided.
- Debrief. Afterwards we go over what happened and what comes next. Typed notes follow within 24 hours.
What I don't do
I don't give legal advice, speak to the court for you, talk to the other party or their lawyer, or act as a witness. If you don't have legal help, Legal Aid Queensland, community legal centres and court-based duty lawyer services may be able to assist. I'll help you find the right one before the day.
Last reviewed November 2026 by Dalia Croxton. General information only, not legal advice. For advice about your situation, speak to a union, Legal Aid Queensland, a community legal centre or a lawyer.