Local Court of New South Wales

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There are over 160 Local Courts in NSW. Local Court cases are heard by a magistrate without a jury. It hears summary offences (offences of a less serious nature). It hears civil claims up to $60 000 and has a Small Claims Division for claims less than $3000. It also hears applications for Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs). It is at the bottom of the Australian court hierarchy. Also contained within the Local Court are the Children's Court and the Coroner's Court. The Children's Court hears matters involving those who have not yet reached the age of 18 and is a closed court, meaning the general public may not attend. The media are allowed to attend but may not publish the identity of the offender. The Coroner's Court investigates suspicious deaths and fires. It does not punish offenders however, it passes its findings on to another court.