THE NSW Government has released a consultation paper on plans to reform the state's civil justice system.
"When people have disputes over debts, or even a problem with a landlord, they should be able to resolve the issue quickly, cheaply and, in most cases, outside court," said Attorney General Gabrielle Upton.
"That would reduce pressure on our courts and is good for the economy with fewer people having to take days off work to handle their legal problem.
"Legal problems left unresolved rarely go away and often get worse - so it's vital people have easy access to services that help them resolve them early."
Each year, about 2.8 million people in NSW face a significant legal problem, with 85 per cent of matters involving civil law.
However, research by the Law and Justice Foundation of NSW shows one in five people take no action because they don't know how to or think it will be too stressful or expensive.
The government's Justice for Everyday Problems consultation paper describes the kinds of problems dealt with by the civil justice system, the services available to resolve disputes, and sets out ideas for change.
You can find out more at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au where you can fill out a short survey.
Submissions can also be made to civiljustice@justice.nsw.gov.au or via mail to Civil Justice Project Team GPO Box 31, Sydney NSW 2001.
