Magistrates' Courts of England and Wales

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.

The Magistrates' Court handles summary offences, which are less serious offences that can be dealt with without a jury trial. The magistrates hear the evidence presented by the prosecution and defence, determine guilt or innocence, and impose penalties within their sentencing powers.

The Magistrates' Court also deals with either way offences, which are offences that can be tried in either the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court, depending on factors such as the seriousness of the offence, the defendant's criminal history, or the decision of the prosecution. If the defendant elects for a trial in the Magistrates' Court and is found guilty, the court can impose penalties within its sentencing powers. However, if the case is deemed too serious, it may be sent to the Crown Court for trial.

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.

The Magistrates' Court has limited sentencing powers compared to the Crown Court. It can impose fines, community orders, short-term custodial sentences (up to six months for a single offence or up to 12 months for consecutive sentences), and other non-custodial penalties.

Appeals from the Magistrates' Court go to the Crown Court, which is a higher court. Defendants convicted in the Magistrates' Court have the right to appeal their conviction or sentence if they believe there are grounds for appeal.

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.