Magistrates' court (England and Wales) facts for kids

In England and Wales, a magistrates' court is a special kind of lower court where many legal cases begin. These courts handle less serious crimes, often called "summary offences." They also deal with the first steps for more serious crimes. Sometimes, they even help with family matters, like issues between parents.

Almost all criminal cases in England and Wales start in a magistrates' court. These courts handle smaller problems, like minor driving issues or public order offences. They can give out punishments like fines or community service.

For very serious crimes, like major thefts, the magistrates' court will send the case to a higher court called the Crown Court. This is because the Crown Court can give out much bigger punishments. Some crimes, like theft, can be handled by either court depending on how serious they are. If a crime is serious enough, the person accused can even choose to have their case heard by a jury in the Crown Court.

Magistrates' courts do not have a jury. Instead, cases are heard by a group of three (or sometimes two) unpaid people called magistrates. Sometimes, a paid judge called a district judge hears the cases.

The police usually investigate criminal cases. Then, the Crown Prosecution Service presents the case in court. People accused of crimes can hire a solicitor or barrister to help them. Sometimes, the government helps pay for this legal help through legal aid.

What Magistrates' Courts Do

Magistrates' courts are very important because they handle a huge number of cases every year. They are the first stop for most criminal matters.

Handling Different Types of Cases

Magistrates' courts deal with two main types of criminal cases:

• Smaller crimes: These are less serious offences. The magistrates' court can decide these cases completely. They might give out fines, community service, or other punishments.
• Serious crimes: For very serious crimes, the magistrates' court holds an initial hearing. They decide if there is enough evidence for the case to go to the Crown Court. The Crown Court handles the final trial and sentencing for these big cases.

Family and Other Matters

Besides criminal cases, magistrates' courts also handle some civil matters. This often includes cases about families, such as child arrangements or domestic issues. They play a key role in resolving these important disputes.

Who Works in a Magistrates' Court

The people who work in a magistrates' court are crucial for making sure justice is served.

The Magistrates

Most cases are heard by a group of three people called magistrates. These are ordinary citizens who volunteer their time. They are not paid for their work. They receive training to understand the law and make fair decisions.

District Judges

Sometimes, a case is heard by a district judge. These judges are paid legal professionals. They often handle more complex or sensitive cases.

Legal Teams

• Prosecutors: The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is usually in charge of presenting criminal cases. They represent the state and try to prove that a crime was committed.
• Defence: People accused of crimes can have a solicitor or barrister represent them. These lawyers help the accused person present their side of the story and protect their rights.

Images for kids

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  Bedford magistrates' court