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Magistrates Court Representation

Magistrates’ Court Representation

All criminal cases in England and Wales begin with a hearing in the Magistrates’ Court—a court that handles summary offences (like minor driving offences or low-level public disorder) and many either-way offences (which may escalate to Crown Court depending on seriousness) 

Without a solicitor, you risk misunderstanding key processes, pleading without guidance, or missing opportunities to avoid escalation. At Hi Solicitors, our expert defence team reviews your case, explains what to expect, and stands by you at every crucial step.

What Happens at Your First Hearing

At your first Magistrates’ Court hearing, typically referred to as the first appearance, the court will:

  1. Confirm your identity and read the charges 

  2. Ask whether you plead guilty or not guilty

    • Guilty pleas may lead to immediate sentencing

    • Not guilty pleas set the stage for trial or further procedures 

  3. Decide whether the case can be heard in the Magistrates’ Court or must be escalated to the Crown Court for tranfers and trials involving serious offences

  4. Make decisions about bail—or whether you remain in custody pending trial 

Our solicitors work with you to prepare for each possible outcome, ensuring you’re ready for any next step.

Types of Cases Heard & Sentencing Powers

 

Magistrates’ Courts deal with:

  • Summary offences (e.g., minor driving and public order offences, low-value criminal damage)

  • Either-way offences where sentencing limits allow magistrates to handle the case themselves (e.g., theft, ABH) 

They can deliver sentences including:

  • Community orders, fines, or discharges

  • Custodial sentences of up to 12 months (or 6 months per offence) 

Anything beyond these limits—or especially serious cases like murder or rape—must be sent to the Crown Court


The Crown Court deals with serious criminal cases, including:

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Robbery
  • Appeals against a magistrates’ court conviction or sentence
  • Cases passed from a magistrates’ court for trial or sentencing.

 

Why Hi Solicitors Should Represent You

  • We bring clear, seasoned advice from the very first hearing

  • We help you decide strategically on pleas, bail, and whether to remain in Magistrates’ Court or move to Crown Court

  • We handle both pleas and sentencing hearings, reducing risk carefully

  • We prepare mitigation and alternatives when appropriate

  • We operate across all Magistrates’ Courts in England & Wales

Speak to Our Defence Team Today

If you’ve been charged or invited to court, don’t face it alone. Early legal guidance can avoid confusion, reduce risks, and steer your case toward the best result. Contact us now—even outside office hours. Call: 01204 371414 Email: [email protected] Or fill out our enquiry form; a solicitor will respond promptly.
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Call: 01204 371 414
Email: [email protected]

Office Address:

187b Derby St, Bolton, BL3 6JT

Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday
10.00am-18.00pm