Do I need a lawyer for the Disputes Tribunal? What if my English is not strong?
No, you do not need a lawyer. A lawyer cannot represent you at the hearing, but you can get legal advice beforehand. If your English is not strong, tell the Disputes Tribunal early that you need an interpreter. The independent interpreter is free. Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) or a Community Law Centre can help you fill in the forms for free.
Official figures
- Maximum claim
- NZ$60,0001
- Fee: claims under NZ$2,000
- NZ$622
- Fee: NZ$2,000 to under NZ$5,000
- NZ$1242
- Fee: NZ$5,000 to NZ$30,000
- NZ$2482
- Fee: NZ$30,001 to NZ$60,000
- NZ$4962
Official sources
- What the Tribunal can help withDisputes Tribunal (Ministry of Justice) · disputestribunal.govt.nz
- Forms & feesDisputes Tribunal (Ministry of Justice) · disputestribunal.govt.nz
- How to make a claimDisputes Tribunal (Ministry of Justice) · disputestribunal.govt.nz
- What to expect at a hearingDisputes Tribunal (Ministry of Justice) · disputestribunal.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Small claims: the Disputes Tribunal →
People also ask
- A shop sold me a faulty product and won't give me a refund. Where can I make a claim?
- A tradesperson did poor work on my house. How do I claim some of my money back?
- What is the maximum amount I can claim at the Disputes Tribunal, and how much is the fee?
- My neighbour's tree roots damaged my drains. Can I go to the Disputes Tribunal?
- Can the Disputes Tribunal deal with a bond dispute with my landlord?
- Someone admits they owe me money but won't pay. Can the Disputes Tribunal help?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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