Magistrates Summary

Magistrates Summary

1. 160 Magistrates Courts in UK - cover a designated local geographical area

   • 90% of offences heard at magistrates

2. May be legally qualified (District Judges) but mostly non - legal Lay magistrates

3. Try all summary offences - try either way offences - first hearings of indictable offences - deal with preliminary ,matters for a trial - try offences in Youth Courts

   • Summary Offences Fines Level 1 - £200 Level 2 £500 Level 3 £1000 Level 4 2500 Level 5 Unlimited

4. Have no qualifications but must be 1) Between 18 and 65 - Live or work in the area - Commit to 26 half days a year

   • Must be 1) Of good character 2) Have understanding and awareness 3) Have social awareness 4) Have maturity and a sound temperament 5) Have sound judgement 6) Have commitment and be reliable
   • Prohibitions 1) Have committed a serious crime 2) Be an undisclosed bankrupt 3) Member of Armed Forces 4) Serving Police Officer 5) Have relatives in local criminal justice system 6) Be hearing impaired

5. To Apply - fill in application form with 2 referees. Two stage selection interview process. 1st interview see if they have 6 attributes. 2nd interview tests judicial aptitude - case studies to test verdict and sentencing

   • Selected and interviewed and recommended by Local Advisory Committee. Submit names to Senior Presiding Judge who appoints them.

6. Role - sit as a panel of 3. 97% of Criminal cases heard by magistrates. Can issue search warrants and arrest warrants. Grant extensions to custody. Hear appeals from Magistrates Court in Crown Court