Types of Claims Heard in the Magistrates Court

In the UK the Magistrates Courts will deal with many civil cases and criminal cases. The majority of criminal cases will start at the Magistrates Court, for the more serious cases, such as murder; the case will be transferred directly to the Crown Court where a trial will be held with a judge and jury. If a serious crime is committed in a magistrate's area then they will be the first to assess the case and decide on its process. The Magistrates Court will also deal with what is know as summary offenses, which are cases where the defendant doesn't have the right to a trial by jury. A summary offense can result in defendants either being sentenced to a maximum of six months in prison and even get up to a £5,000 fine.

There are a variety of civil cases that Magistrates deal with which affect the public, the most common types are things like; anti-social behaviour, child welfare, or matrimonial difficulties that could for example, involve removing a member of the family from the home. They also deal with any kind of civil debt issues, such as evasion of income tax or council tax. Those that don't pay their council tax will be issued with a liability order in which the Magistrates Court will arrange for the arrears to be paid by taking money from a variety of ways, these include; wages, Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or if left unresolved, bailiffs can be ordered to seize any of your goods to cover for the amount of tax that is owed. Magistrates also have the power to send to you to prison if they believe it to be necessary.

The types of claims heard in the Magistrates Court are usually the most common types of claims that could affect the majority of people. At least 95% of all cases will go through the Magistrates and will often be transferred to other courts if need be. So whatever claim or dispute you may have the Magistrates Court will usually be able to resolve your problems.

I am a legal writer covering advice on topics of law, for further text and similar works visit legal advice or contact a solicitor today.

For more legal advice and information, and for free legal resources I suggest you visit lawontheweb.co.uk.