You’ve got a court date coming up. Maybe it’s a criminal charge. Maybe someone’s applied for a restraining order against you — or you need to apply for one yourself. You’ve Googled the process, maybe found some government websites, a few Reddit threads, and you’re starting to feel like you can handle it on your own.
But here’s the problem: Google can give you information. It can’t give you judgment.
And when it comes to navigating criminal charges or restraining orders, judgment — the kind that comes from experience — can make all the difference.
Here’s what people often don’t realise until it’s too late:
- “What to say in court” is not the same as knowing how to say it
There’s no script for court. Sure, you might find some guidance online about what to say when entering a plea or applying for an adjournment. But what if the prosecution disagrees? What if the magistrate asks you a question you weren’t expecting? What if the other party brings evidence you’ve never seen?
A lawyer knows how to think on their feet, how to structure your position persuasively, and how to read the room in a way that supports your case
- Templates don’t replace tailored advice
Plenty of websites offer template submissions, character references, and affidavits. But every case is different. What works in one matter might harm another — especially in restraining order proceedings, where tone, context, and personal history matter deeply.
Generic material can unintentionally give the wrong impression. A thoughtful legal strategy can help you communicate what truly needs to be said.
- The court already knows the law. It wants to understand your case
When representing yourself, it’s easy to focus on quoting legislation or finding similar cases online. But the court already knows the law. What it needs is a clear, concise explanation of your specific circumstances, told through the right lens.
That’s not just about information — it’s about advocacy.
- You may not get a second chance
In many matters — especially interim or final restraining order hearings — you might only get one opportunity to tell your side of the story before a decision is made. If your evidence isn’t presented clearly, or you miss a critical issue, it can have lasting effects.
Appeals are difficult and often limited. It’s far better to go in well-prepared.
- The other side might have a lawyer — and that can be overwhelming
If the other party has legal representation, it can be intimidating. That lawyer will be trained to question you, raise objections, and advance their client’s case efficiently. Without support, it can be difficult to respond calmly and effectively.
You deserve someone in your corner who understands the system and can help you feel more confident and in control.
At Fraser & Associates Lawyers, we’ve worked with many people who began thinking they could handle it alone — and later realised they needed guidance.
Whether you’re responding to a restraining order, defending a charge, or applying for protection, you don’t need to navigate it alone.
We’re here to help you get it right — respectfully, calmly, and with care. If you’re unsure about your next step, get in touch with us for advice tailored to you.
Let’s talk before things get harder than they need to be.