Summary Offences:
Generally, less serious offences (summary matters) will be heard in the Magistrates’ Court. The usual court process for summary matters is as follows:
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If you intend to plead guilty, a plea hearing can be conducted at any stage of the proceedings. Generally speaking, if a plea of guilty is entered sooner rather than later, it is usually taken into consideration favourably upon sentencing.
If you are in custody pending the hearing of your case (on remand), a bail application can be listed for hearing at any of the above hearings, or alternatively, it can be listed on another date.
Indictable Offences:
If you have been charged with more serious offences (indictable matters), generally, the process will be as follows:
Stage One: Magistrates’ Court
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Stage Two: County or Supreme Court (depending on charges)
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If you are in custody pending the hearing of your case (on remand), a bail application can be listed in court for hearing at any of the above hearings, or alternatively, it can be listed on another date.
For further information or legal advice, contact our legal team at Ondrik Larsen Lawyers today.