A summary-only offence is normally tried and sentenced in the Magistrates’ Court. Although this category covers less serious allegations than Crown Court-only offences, a conviction can still affect your liberty, driving licence, employment and reputation. Contact Ghafar Khan before entering a plea or attending trial.
What is a summary-only offence?
Summary-only offences are offences which, when alleged against an adult, can normally be tried only in the Magistrates’ Court. Examples may include many motoring matters, minor criminal damage, common assault and some public-order allegations. The precise classification depends on the offence charged.
What happens at the Magistrates’ Court?
The first hearing may deal with plea, bail, legal aid and case management. A not-guilty plea usually leads to directions and a trial date. A trial is heard by magistrates or a District Judge, without a jury.
Questions clients often ask
Do I need a solicitor for a summary-only offence?
Legal representation can be important where evidence, identification, self-defence, procedure, disqualification or sentence is disputed.
Can a summary offence result in prison?
Some summary offences carry custody, although the available sentence depends on the specific charge and circumstances.
Can Ghafar Khan represent me in the Magistrates’ Court?
Yes. Contact Ghafar Khan for advice about plea, bail, evidence, trial and sentence. Legal aid may be available depending on the case and eligibility.
Looking for an experienced Magistrates’ Court solicitor?
When your liberty, livelihood or reputation is at stake, you may search for the best criminal lawyer, a local criminal solicitor or an experienced Magistrates’ Court defence solicitor. The useful question is whether the lawyer has relevant criminal-law experience, understands the evidence and will give clear advice. Contact Ghafar Khan for specialist criminal defence advice before your hearing.
Get advice before your first hearing
Early advice allows the charge, prosecution papers, possible defence and court procedure to be reviewed before important decisions are made.
Contact Ghafar Khan: Call 07500 556587 · Send an SMS · WhatsApp Ghafar Khan · notguilty@ghafarkhan.com · acting throughout England and Wales · #CALLGFA
Official information
GOV.UK: criminal courts · CPS: how a criminal case works
General information only. The correct procedure and possible sentence depend on the particular charge and case.