What To Expect

Although Conciliation Court hearings are very informal, you must be adequately prepared to present your case. Attorneys are not allowed in Conciliation Court except by permission of the Court.

Testifying Parties

All parties and witnesses who appear will testify under oath. The witnesses should be present and ready to testify.

If a witness is reluctant to appear, you may obtain a subpoena to compel them to appear. You can get a subpoena from the Court Administrator by paying a $16 fee for each name.

You should know that written statements and affidavits of persons not present in Court have very little value.

Evidence

You should bring any evidence to help prove your claim to the Court. Examples include:

• receipts
• repair bills
• estimates
• photos
• contracts

You can also get a subpoena to get documents which relate to your claim which the defendant or some other person has but is not willing to give you.

Prepare Your Presentation

You should prepare a list of facts you wish to present before you go to court. Organize your presentation to make it as clear and complete as possible to the Court. All too often, important items which might affect the Court's decision are forgotten.