Family Inclusion Network (FIN) Queensland (Townsville)
How to Prepare for Court 
1. SEEK LEGAL ADVICE before you go.
2. Wear NEAT and CONSERVATIVE CLOTHING 
as it shows the Court you are serious.
3. PREPARE for Court!
• It will help your case if you READ ALL DOCUMENTS given to you by Child Safety.
• WRITE DOWN what you don’t agree with.
• Give ALL OF THE ABOVE information to your lawyer.
4. THINK ABOUT what questions you may be asked in Court. 
TAKE NOTES with you about what you want to say.
BE AWARE, however, that anything you say will be used to make a final decision.
USEFUL TIP!
Prepare for Court by getting copies of files / informationChild Safety has about you
by applying EARLY through Freedom of Information. 
NOTE: It can take weeks to obtain this information (Child Safety has to respond to an application within 45 days).
So get in early!
You can get the Freedom of Information form from: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au/right-to-information
NOTE: On the forms, remember to request all paper and electronic files, notes, letters and entries on yourself.
