Magistrates Court Matters

Every criminal charge commences with the first appearance in the Magistrates Court.

The Magistrates Court is vested with the jurisdiction to deal with all summary offences, that make up the majority of criminal offences in Western Australia.

The Magistrates courts in Western Australia are divided into jurisdictions, for example, if an offence allegedly occurs in Clarkson, it will be dealt with by the Joondalup Magistrates Court.

The Magistrates Court deals with all simple possession charges in relation to prohibited substances, restraining orders, common assault, certain stealing matters, just to name a few.

If you are charged with a simple offence, you will appear in the Magistrates Court. If it is an either way offence and can be dealt with on indictment, the prosecution may apply to have the matter sent to a superior court.

Matters in the Magistrates Court can be dealt with by way of summons or by bail. If you are on bail, you are required to appear at the Magistrates Court in keeping with your obligations set out in your bail form. If you are on a prosecution notice, you can instruct a solicitor to appear on your behalf.

Talk to Paul Holmes Criminal Lawyer in relation to your Magistrate Court matters, some matters can be discontinued after negotiations with the police. In some instances, the police might be prepared to downgrade charges and you could receive a significantly reduced penalty.