The Magistrates' Court of England and Wales is a criminal court that deals with less serious criminal offences, such as traffic violations, minor assaults, and thefts. Family magistrates are responsible for some family law matters, such as adoption and child welfare in the Family Court.
Magistrates' Courts are located throughout England and Wales and are presided over by magistrates, who are volunteer judges without legal qualifications. They are appointed by the Lord Chancellor and work in panels of three, known as a bench. Magistrates are supported by a legal adviser who provides guidance on points of law and procedure.
In the Magistrates' Court, cases are usually heard without a jury, and the magistrate decides on guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented by the prosecution and defence. Magistrates also have the power to impose sentences on convicted defendants, including fines, community service, and custodial sentences of up to six months for a single offence, or up to 12 months for multiple offences.
Magistrates' Courts play an important role in the criminal justice system by dealing with the majority of criminal cases in England and Wales. They are intended to provide a swift and cost-effective means of resolving less serious criminal offences, while also giving local communities a say in the administration of justice.
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