This website provides you with information about New Zealand's civil justice system and what you can do if you have a dispute with someone.

What is civil justice?

Civil justice relates to disputes between individuals or organisations. Generally, civil cases are not about breaking a criminal law. For example, they could include disputes over business contracts or debts, or disputes between neighbours.

If you have a dispute

If you have a dispute with someone, you may be able to resolve it without going to court. Many civil cases are settled without a court hearing because everyone agrees on a solution.

A civil case comes before the courts if people cannot resolve a dispute between themselves, either independently or with legal help.

There are many advantages in resolving a dispute outside of the court system - it can reduce cost, save time and avoid extra stress.

There are a number of ways you could try to resolve your dispute:

• If the claim is for less than $15,000 (or less than $20,000 if eveyone agrees) and is disputed, then it may be able to be heard by the Disputes Tribunal.
• If the claim is for less than $200,000, then you may go to the District Court. See the District Court's claim process for more information.
• If your claim is very complex, or for more than $200,000, it will be dealt with by the High Court. Your lawyer or community law centre can give you more information about taking your claim to the High Court.