Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Get the free app no ads · no paywall

Explained in plain English

What is Magistrates' Court for?

Magistrates' Courts are the first step in the criminal justice system for most cases, including serious ones like murder. They handle initial hearings, decide on bail, and send the most serious cases to the Crown Court for trial. They also deal with less serious offences themselves.

Stories that explain this

Mohamed Abotaka, 36, charged with murder of Ali Barzai, 52

Related explainers

How are bodies usually found? Why find next of kin? What happens after a charge? Why do athletes cry on court? Why ban tech in courts? Why are courts backed up? How do courts handle claims? What happens at Crown Court?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under M →