Role M

• What is the jurisdiction of Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court?


  • Classification of offences
  • Pre-trial process
  • Appeal and appellate courts
• What is the role of a Legal Adviser in the Magistrates' Court?

  To provide legal advice to magistrates during proceedings
• Who designates the role of magistrate after recommendations from the Local Advisory Committee?

  Lord chief Justice
• What types of offences do magistrates usually try?

  Summary offences such as lesser serious assault and drink driving and they deal with traffic cases .e.g. failing to stop during a accident. Also environmental cases .e.g animal cruelty
• What can magistrates do with triable either way offences if they believe it is out of their jurisdiction?

  They can send a case to the Crown Court for sentencing
• What decisions do magistrates make during trials?

  They hear evidence and arrive at a verdict
• What do magistrates consider during bail applications?

  Whether defendants should be remanded in custody or returned to the community
• What is the maximum prison sentence and fine magistrates can impose?

  Up to 6 months imprisonment and £5000 fine
• Under what circumstances can magistrates impose an unlimited fine?

  In certain cases as per s85 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012
• What powers do magistrates have regarding warrants?

  They can grant warrants to the police for arrest or search
• what is the application/selection process of the magistrates?

  Can apply in the area they live or work. Attend a public awareness day to learn abt the work involved. Get their applications checked for eligibility and then go through the interview process.
• what do magistrates use to assist them when reaching decisions?

  Sentencing guidelines and case law