Essential Magistrates’ Courts Law

Now better than ever, this trusted work has been updated to include developments that have taken place in the years since the highly acclaimed first edition. Concise and accessible, it distils the law, practice and procedure of magistrates' courts in a straightforward way. All in one place it covers their framework and responsibilities and includes key changes plus an added chapter on offences in the context of protests.

This independent publication by experts in the field sets out information that goes beyond official or internal guidance and is based on practical experience of working in the courts. Its unique approach and readable style is invaluable for practitioners and students alike.

Gathers together core information. Invaluable for practitioners, students and newcomers alike.

Howard Riddle CBE was Senior District Judge (Chief Magistrate) for England and Wales.

Robert Zara is a retired solicitor and former District Judge who worked in a law centre and established his own law firm.

District Judge Briony Clarke is a solicitor and District Judge (Magistrates' Courts) based at Westminster Magistrates' Court.