What is the Evatt List?
The Evatt List is a specialist court named after the first Chief Justice of the Family Court, the Honourable Elizabeth Evatt AC. The court itself consists of a highly qualified team of judicial officers who are assigned to work closely with high risk matters.
If your matter is assigned to the Evatt List, your family will be provided with appropriate supports and resources to protect against family violence, as well as having your matter progressed through the court system as efficiently and effectively as possible.
How does my matter get assigned to the Evatt List?
The following criteria must be met for a matter to be placed onto the Evatt list:
- The matter is an eligible proceeding filed in a family law registry;
- One of the parties has completed the Family DOORS Triage questionnaire (see our blog on The Lighthouse Project for more information on the questionnaire);
- A Triage Counsellor has reviewed the matter; and
- An Evatt List Judicial Registrar determines the matter is appropriate for allocation to the Evatt List.
If your matter is allocated to the Evatt List, a formal Court Order will be made notifying you and the other party(s).
How do Evatt List matters progress through the Court system?
Generally, Evatt List matters progress through the Court system in the following manner:
- Evatt List determination: 5 – 10 business days after referral;
- First return event: 6 – 8 weeks after placement on Evatt List;
- Interim hearing: within 10 – 12 weeks;
- Specialist case management: within 6 – 8 months;
- Compliance and readiness hearing: within 10 months; and
- Final hearing (trial): within 12 months.
Evatt List trials are given priority however, it is crucial that you follow all the Court’s directions to minimize any delay in resolving your matter.
For more information, contact us today or visit the Guide for parties in the Evatt List
