Magistrates Court Legal Advice Service

Run by the Adelaide Law School students under the supervision of experienced lawyers, Magistrates Court Legal Advice Service (MCLAS) is a free legal advice service that assists with disputes in the minor civil claims division of the Adelaide Magistrates Court. 

  • We can assist you with:
    • Providing legal advice.
    • Drafting court documents.
    • Lodging a claim.
    • Explaining court processes.
    • Managing your own claim.
    • Alternative dispute resolution options.
    • Referral to other relevant agencies.

  • Practice areas
    • Fencing disputes.
    • Building disputes.
    • Negligence claims.
    • Contractual disputes.
    • Debt and debt recovery.
    • Property disputes (including Strata and Community Titles).

  • What is a minor civil claim?

    It is a matter worth $12,000 or less. 

    It involves a variety of issues, examples including but not limited to:

    • when your property has been damaged (i.e. your car in a car accident);
    • when you have loaned money to someone and they have not paid it back;
    • when you are owed wages by an employer;
    • when you are having a dispute with your neighbour.
Magistrates Court

Make an appointment

Operating hours: 10am-1pm Mondays and Tuesdays

Email: mclas@adelaide.edu.au

Phone: +61 8 8204 2444

Location:  Magistrates Court , 260 Victoria Square, Adelaide

Book an appointment

Preparing for an appointment

What to expect

Appointments generally last from 45 to 60 minutes. The advice provided will be at no cost. However, you will be responsible for any of your own costs including court filling fees, obtaining evidence, and preparing for a hearing. 

What documents to bring with you

MCLAS recommends that you bring any document to your appointment which you consider relevant to your legal issue. For example, where appropriate, documents such as contracts, invoices, image sand other court documents will be helpful.

What can you expect from us?

MCLAS will attempt to respond to all correspondence in a timely manner. MCLAS cannot represent you in court or take over the management of claims for you but we can assist you in court preparation. 

Useful resources

We encourage people to resolve disputes by mediation before they get to court. To find out about mediation, explore the following: