SUMMARY OFFENCES

• the aim of pre-trial procedures for summary offences is to complete the case at the earliest opportunity
• The magistrates' court will take the plea - guilty or not guilty
• Over 90% of the defendants plead guilty in the magistrates court
• For a guilty plea, the sentencing hearing will hear brief facts of the offence and any statements the defendants wants to make
• For not guilty plea, the magistrates' will set a date for trial