Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

At Watson Woodhouse, we have a team of specialist criminal defence solicitors able to defend you in magistrates court. All offences start in the Magistrates Court as any criminal allegation can have serious consequences.  A panel of 3 magistrates or one district judge will listen to both the prosecution and the defence’s version of events during a case. From here they will announce a guilty or not guilty verdict. Magistrates have the power to sentence up to 12 months. Should you require representation from an expert, please contact our team immediately.

Magistrates Court Cases

‘Summary Only’ cases can only be dealt with here as they  attract sentences of less than six months. Triable ‘either way’ cases will be heard in either the Magistrates or Crown Court. Every case from murder to the dropping litter starts in the Magistrates court. If the offence can be heard in either the magistrates must go on to decide whether they can retain jurisdiction of the matter. They will consider the likely sentence alongside any reasons of factual, procedural or legal complexity rendering the matter unsuitable for summary trial. The outcome determines if the case remains or is sent to Crown Court.

Guilty Sentences Via Magistrates

If the magistrates find the defendant guilty, sentences can include:

• Fines
• A Community Order
• Discharge or Conditional Discharge
• A Suspended Sentence
• A Custodial Sentence up to a Maximum of 6 Months

Upon hearing the evidence, it’s possible for the Magistrates to commit your case to the Crown Court for sentencing. This occurs when they feel they don’t have sufficient sentencing powers in light of the case facts. 

Magistrates Court Solicitors

At Watson Woodhouse, we have over thirty years of experience representing individuals in the Magistrates Court. The process can be daunting and stressful and we understand this. Our role is to diminish your concerns by thoroughly explaining court proceedings. We’ll provide you with a detailed understanding of your case and the possible defences available.

With your best interests at the forefront we’re seeking to achieve the best possible outcome.