Essential Magistrates Courts Law

In this concise and valuable book the authors distil their vast expertise for the benefit of all those needing quick and targeted points of reference on key aspects of magistrates’ court law, whether as newcomers, justices, legal advisers, or criminal practitioners. Hugely informed and presented in an accessible format, it explains the central law, practice and procedure of these courts. The framework of summary justice has changed comprehensively in the past decade in terms of evidence, procedure, guidelines, sentencing, training and the fair but efficient expedition of cases. This book sets out these developments as well as inescapable aspects of case management. Gathers core information in one place. Sets out key processes in a manageable and readable way. Reviews '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 (external link). ‘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.

FOURTH EDITION'This is an excellent book to get you started in the magistrates' court no matter what your level of participation': David Simpson (District Judge)The FOURTH EDITION of this popular work contains a basic explanation of the work of the magistrates' court and an outline of jurisdiction, procedures, sentencing and other powers - plus proposals for reform. Contains a Glossary of Words, Phrases and Abbreviations 'The Language of the System'. 'An ideal introduction' Law Society Gazette (First edition). Other editions received excellent reviews, including from The Magistrate and Victim Support etc. 1. Outline of the System2. Magistrates', Chief Executives and Justices' Clerks3. Powers, Procedures, Fairness and Human Rights4. Criminal Cases and Evidence5. Sentencing6. The Youth Court and Youth Offending Teams7. The Family Proceedings Court and CAFCASS8. Licensing Matters9. Some Common Procedures (including e.g. Bail, disqualification and endorsement, protection from harassment, anti-social behaviour orders and general emergencies)10. Law, Lawyers and State Funded Legal Representation11. Appeals12. A Quality Service - including a note on the Auld report. This book also contains an extensive Glossary of Words, Phrases and Abbreviations - which sets out 'The language of the System' - and serves to open up the world of the magistrates' courts to newcomers. As such it is essential reading for anyone unfamiliar with magistrates' courts, joining the magistracy or, e.g. completing a project on those courts.

This authoritative guide to the practice and procedure of magistrates' courts is essential reading for anyone involved in the criminal justice system. It covers everything from the jurisdiction of magistrates' courts to the preparation and presentation of a case. Thomas William Saunders draws on his extensive experience as a magistrate to provide clear and practical advice for both solicitors and laypeople. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

A rare insight and celebration of the magistracy, Our Magistracy sets out its core role and values and identifies mistakes by politicians, administrators, bureaucrats and others. By a former chairman of the Magistrates Association of England and Wales. In this thoroughly informed account of the magistracy the author deals with key issues touching on that institution. Focussing on what Lord Bingham, Lord Chief Justice, described as a ‘democratic jewel beyond price’, he explains its rationale, goals and over-riding values. Dealing with major developments, economics, management, day-to-day practicalities and changing times the author casts an experienced eye over summary justice, law and order and its fascinating history of local administration. Describing the magistracy as a great national institution, independent, respected and a true people’s court, John Hosking nevertheless decries a halving of its size, closure of courthouses, remote services and increasing reliance on professional judges rather than community volunteers. Though much has changed for the better to increase competency, meet criticism and maintain integrity, the book explains how other developments have challenged the very status of the lay magistracy and made inroads into one of the most cherished principles of our democracy: public participation in the justice system. Extracts ‘It … ill-behoves politicians and reformers to support actions which may be designed to improve the justice system as a whole, but which devalue the magistracy in the process. Likewise, the sustainability of the magistracy can only be assured if the popular demands of the present … are met without compromising the future of the whole institution.’ ‘In addition to its unquestioned integrity and independence, the most persuasive reason for having a lay magistracy is that … it manifestly does a good job at a very low cost.’

After 650 years justices of the peace find themselves at a crossroads. This book looks at the role of one of the UK's oldest institutions in a rapidly changing world.

The most straightforward overview available. Covers the entire criminal justice system. A ‘no frills’ explanation for beginners. This basic guide sets out the main components of the criminal justice system in an accessible way. Intended as a starting point for readers coming to the subject for the first time it is ideal for new staff, volunteers, first year students and other ‘rookies’: a short book of facts, explanations and pointers to further study. Chapters: 1. What is Crime? 2. What is Criminal Justice? 3. Who’s Who? 4. Modern Developments 5. The Police 6. The Criminal Courts in Action 7. Sentencing (including Probation Work) 8. Prisons and Imprisonment 9. Victims and Restorative Justice 10. Causes of Crime The book also features the Rule of Law, risk assessment, decision-making, forensic investigation, witnesses, surveillance, criminology, crime reduction strategies, border controls, penal reform and some international and historical dimensions. With a Glossary of Words, Phrases and Abbreviations.

Essential Legal System and Legal Services for SQE1 explains the key principles of the English and Welsh Legal System, sources of law and legal services in a clear, concise and easy-to-follow style. Principles are introduced and illustrated with reference to practical examples. The book explains the importance of, and the workings of, the Legal System of England and Wales, including the hierarchy of the courts, sources of law and the regulation of legal services. The book provides a clear and structured approach with opportunities to apply the relevant principles to the law. It also includes a range of interactive features, including: ● Revision points: Each chapter concludes with a concise list of key revision points. ● Multiple choice questions: Each section of the book provides multiple choice questions following the SQE1 question format (with answers to enable you to test your knowledge). Further multiple choice questions and answers are also provided on the companion website. Part of a series of books aimed at those who are preparing for SQE1, this concise and accessible text provides a clear understanding of the key principles of the Legal System and Legal Services of England and Wales, and enables you to test your assessment skills.

McNae's Essential Law for Journalists continues to provide definitive practical guidance on the effects of the law and the Press Complaints Commission Code of Conduct on news gathering and publication. McNae's is endorsed by the National Council for the Training of Journalists as the essential text for students on journalism courses. It is the indispensable, complete and portable resource in the armory of the practicing journalist or editor; used in newsrooms, court rooms and at public meetings across the country. The authors' non-technical language, engaging writing style and use of topical examples makes the law clear and brings it to life. The nineteenth edition of this acclaimed book has been made even more user-friendly with a two color text design and the inclusion of summaries and practical checklists to meet the needs of students and busy journalists who need quick answers to the questions they face in their day-to-day work. The book is complemented by a web site that provides a test bank of questions, updates, web links, key cases, and latest news.