I am self-represented at a Personal Protection Order (PPO) Final Hearing

This factsheet is for you if you are representing yourself at your Personal Protection Order Final Hearing. This is not about a Final Hearing for an Amendment or an Extension.

This factsheet explains:

  • How should I behave in Court?
  • What do I need to do before the day of the Final Hearing?
  • What does the Applicant need to prove at a Final Hearing?
  • What happens on the day of the Final Hearing?
  • What do ‘evidence in chief’ and ‘cross-examination’ mean?
  • What happens after the Final Hearing?
  • What is a ‘costs order’?

This factsheet does not explain:

  • The overall court process for a Personal Protection Order 
  • What is a subpoena?
  • Final Hearings for an Amendment or Extension of a Personal Protection Order 

This factsheet gives general legal information. It is not legal advice. 

Last reviewed on 2 March 2026

Keywords: personal violence, restraining order, coercive control, safety, PPO, protection, respondent, no lawyer, self representation, self rep, litigation, evidence, final hearing, hearing, Magistrates Court