magistrates to crown

[gilly100788]

What happens in the magistrates court when you go there to be transfered to crown court ? Does it take long,can any one give me some details of what happens please.

[sara3]

the court will check witness availability, make sure all papers have been served on all parties, work out how long the trial should take, then book it in at Crown Court on the phone. the hearing will probably take about 15-20 mins, but you'll probably be waiting a while as all cases are listed at 10am or 2pm, then whoever is ready goes into court next.

[gilly100788]

thanks sara, then hes got to wait for a plea and case managment hearing ! can any body sit in on that ? is it just like a court hearing.?

[sara3]

in that case, the first Crown hearing will be the PCMH. you can go and sit in the public gallery (assuming you're not connected with the case). they will then fix the date for trial or, if he pleads guilty, they will arrange a date for sentencing.. probably allowing for pre-sentence reports (with Probation staff) to be done first.

[gilly100788]

thanks again,sarah

[sara3]

without the h ;o)

you're welcome!