Magistrates Court - what is it like?

[Podrick]

My Dad is going to be defending himself against a minor motoring charge next week - what will the format be in the magistrates court, we don't really know what to expect?

You go in, report to the reception, are told which court to go to. Sit outside for bloody hours. You will be called in. You hear the case against you, you are given a chance to respond, the magistrate then makes a ruling.

If you are fined you then go see the court administrator and pay the fine there and then or set up a payment schedule. Tis v dull!

Oh and the coffee from the machine tends to be shite - get some from Costa on the way there

Do they have witnesses in court?

Yes, they can have relevant witnesses. For example the policeman will probably turn up to read out his report.

This might help

Bugger - wrong page sorry www.thesite.org/homelawandmoney/law/introuble/goingtocourt

Apologies for the hijack - Whomovedmychocolate - I'm after you on the hahoo thread

thanks, whomovedmychocolate - this is really kind of you

podrick, as i am a jp (typing one handed with puppy on lap!) can i help? what is the charge and is he going to plead not guilty if you can give me a few details i can explain the process.

ditto here but Sal sounds nice too....!

Hi marmitebabe - are you really? ; 'twas feeling a little lonely with Cod's departure from the mumsnet Bench .

I am Kent btw

I really am! Hi {waves in your direction}, so don't be lonely! I'm in Hertfordshire. Could do with a 3rd to make a trial bench...

Hi marmite (waves excitedly back)! Glad you've GOT a trial.... we are v quiet atm

Hi Sal. Glad you're quiet... calm b4 storm of dv cts come in

We have had them for over a year now - chaired a dv court today in fact. Has made a huge difference to number of successful prosecutions and having a dedicated specialist dv co-ordinator to support victims has also had a significant impact. Good luck...