All criminal cases start in the Magistrates Court and most then conclude there.
Our specialist Magistrates Court team of solicitors are all experienced advocates, whether conducting a bail application, a plea in mitigation or a trial. All have vast experience in the full range of cases heard at the Magistrates Court. We will guide you through the process, advising you on your options and providing first class representation at Court.
Certain cases can only be dealt with in the Magistrates Court and decisions will have to be made on a first appearance so far as plea is concerned and where appropriate, trial dates fixed and legal directions dealt with. Often our advocates are able to persuade prosecutors that charges are wrong in principle or less serious charges more appropriate.
Where trials are necessary we have specialist trial advocates and we appear daily in all local Magistrates Courts. The trial advocate will have personal ownership of your case and keep you regularly updated as well as arranging conferences to discuss the case strategy.
Those cases that can be heard in the Crown Court have a different set of rules to those that can only be dealt with in the Magistrates Court. Some will automatically be sent to the Crown Court whereas some (known as either way offences) can be dealt with in either the Magistrates Court or Crown Court. Our advocates will advise you in full detail the rules relating to these cases and the advantages and disadvantages of where your case will be dealt with. Where you have a choice of venue this is an important decision our advocates will fully discuss with you.
We are able to undertake all matters, and will advise clients on the most suitable form of funding, whether Legal Aid or privately funded. Legal Aid is subject to a merits and financial eligibility test and our lawyers are able to assist you in applying for Legal Aid where appropriate.
The firm regularly and successfully defends clients across the full array of criminal law matters in the Magistrates Court.
If you face proceedings before a Magistrates Court we strongly recommend that you consider appointing a solicitor.
