I need to file my court documents with the registry. I have just seen the cost to file documents. The whole reason I am going to court is because I need compensation for the damages I have suffered. I am already out-of-pocket and there is no way I can afford this expensive filing fee. What can I do? Do I have any options?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Lisa Wulfsohn, Melbourne 3000 VIC
- Generally you can apply to have the fee waived (put aside) if it will cause you financial hardship.
- The court registry will ask you to fill in a form and provide some proof about your financial situation.
- Before making a decision they will look at your:
- assets;
- liabilities;
- income; and
- expenses.
- You will need to provide evidence to support your financial position. This may be in the form of:
- bank statements;
- details about any loans;
- shares and assets;
- your employment status;
- pay slips; and
- any pension cards.
- Please visit the website of the relevant court for specific details about how to apply for a fee waiver.