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Outreach kit
For Thuthuzela Care Centres, victim-support groups, clinics, schools, churches, police stations and social workers. Print the one-pager below or copy a ready-made message.
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Going to court in South Africa? Here is what happens next.
Through the Courts is a free, plain-language guide for victims, witnesses and the people supporting them. It explains the criminal and civil court process step by step, so nobody has to walk in not knowing what to expect.
What it covers
- Every stage from reporting to trial and judgment
- The civil path, and how it differs from a criminal case
- Which court to go to and what to bring
- How to speak in court, and what to do if you freeze
- Free legal clinics and how to apply
- Legal words explained simply
- A printable factsheet to take to court
Who it is for
- Victims and complainants
- Witnesses, including children and their guardians
- Parents, partners and friends supporting someone
- Social workers, counsellors and volunteers
Urgent help
Police 10111 · GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428 · Childline 116 · Legal Aid SA 0800 110 110
Visit legal-compass-za.lovable.app
Works on any phone. The guides, glossary, court guide and help directory are free to read.
General information about the South African legal system, not legal advice. Operated by Wendy Joy Cerutti, South Africa.
Ready-made messages
Email or letter to an organisation
Through the Courts (https://legal-compass-za.lovable.app) is a free, plain-language guide to the South African criminal and civil court process, written for victims, witnesses and the families supporting them. It explains every stage from reporting to trial and judgment, what to bring to court, how to speak in court, where to find free legal help, and what the legal words mean. There is also a printable factsheet people can take to court. Please share the link with anyone you are supporting, or print the one-pager to put on your notice board.
Short WhatsApp or SMS message
Free plain-language guide to South African court cases — what happens after you report, how long it takes, and where to get free help: https://legal-compass-za.lovable.app
Where sharing helps most
- Thuthuzela Care Centres and hospital trauma units
- Victim-support rooms at police stations
- Court preparation officers and prosecutors' offices
- Legal Aid SA offices and university law clinics
- Shelters, counselling services and church support groups
- School counsellors and social workers