Magistrates + Magistrates Court

Question 1

Summary Of Offences

Answer 1

Least serious offences
- Driving offences, minor assault etc

Question 2

Offences Triable Either Way

Answer 2

Middle range crimes
- in magistrates/crown
- theft, ABH

Question 3

Indictable Offences

Answer 3

Most serious crimes
- only at crown court
murder, manslaughter, robbery + rape

Question 4

Magistrates Court Facts

Answer 4

1: 97% of all criminal trials
£5000 fine/6 months imprisonment
2: Initial hearing in Magistrates’ Court
3: Issue warrants (arrest/searching)
4: Youth court proceedings (aged 10-17)
5: Civil jurisdiction: enforcing debts

Question 5

District Judges

Answer 5

Qualified + paid
Sit alone, same powers as lay magistrates
Must be barrister/solicitor for 7 years

Question 6

Lay Magistrates

Answer 6

Not legally qualified, unpaid except expenses
Work in local justice area
Power: send to another court, directions for timetables, attendance of parties

Question 7

Qualifications and appointment of Magistrates

Answer 7

Between 17-75 years old
Work in local justice area
1998 Lord Chancellor, 6 key qualities

Question 8

1998 Lord Chancellor: 6 Key Qualities

Answer 8

• Good character
• Understanding and communication
• Social awareness
• Maturity and sound temperament
• Sound judgement
• Commitment and reliability

Question 9

Selection and Appointment

Answer 9

Justices of Peace Act 1997
- 700 lay magistrates appointed each year
- Relies on recommendations
- Anyone can apply
- Adverts used to encourage

Question 10

Interview Process

Answer 10

First Interview - 6 key qualities, discuss issues eg: youth crime
Second Interview - Test candidates, judicial attitude using case studies