Description
Book SynopsisHugely informed and presented in an accessible format, Essential Magistrates' Courts Law contains invaluable information and explanations of the central laws, procedures and practices of these courts. The legal framework of summary justice has changed comprehensively in the past ten to 15 years including in terms of evidence, procedure, guidelines, sentencing, judicial training and the fair but efficient expedition of cases. The book is designed to complement these developments as well as modern-day aspects of case management.
Trade Review‘It is hard to improve on the way that two of our distinguished colleagues SDJ Howard Riddle and DJ Robert Zara [describe the burden of proof] in Essential Magistrates Courts Law’-- Stephen Leake, Editor Archbold Magistrates’ Court Practice, in Magistrate; 'Readable and blissfully concise... There are some nuggets for every reader, however much we might think we know... An excellent addition to the bookshelf at a modest price'-- The Law Society Gazette; 'An ideal point if reference ... an easily intelligible and practical explanation ... Every criminal practice would benefit from having a copy of this book': The London Advocate/Journal of the London Criminal Court Solicitors Association; 'The explanations offered in the publication are thorough, yet presented in simple terms, such that any reader can understand the procedures required to be followed by magistrates in dealing with their cases... handily divided... much of the advice given in Essential Magistrates' Courts Law on what needs to be considered by magistrates in the fulfilment of their duties is relevant to all judicial officers working in the courts.'-- Commonwealth Judicial Journal; `Howard Riddle and Robert Zara have effectively produced a must-read for any judge, magistrate or lawyer practising in the magistrates' courts. This book will become the reference book to carry to court ... We thoroughly recommend [it] to all new judges, deputies and magistrates'- Emma Arbuthnot, Senior District Judge (Chief Magistrate) for England and Wales; John Bache, Chairman of the Magistrates Association; Duncan Webster, Chairman, Magistrates' Leadership Executive; 'A very clear, succinct and practical guide which would be of great value to a pupil or junior practitioner finding their feet'- Anna Banfield, BPP; 'How useful your book is and how clear and well written I have found it. Undoubtedly an extremely useful resource': Tom Lees JP Greater Manchester.
Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction; History of justices of the peace in England and Wales; A brief overview; Applications; The first appearance; Youths, vulnerable witnesses and defendants; The trial; Common offences; Common defences; Sentencing; Recent Developments; Criminal justice terms and abbreviations; Appendix I - A typical domestic violence case; Appendix 2 - Adjournments: The Lord Chief Justice's Practice Direction: April 2019; Index.
