A Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing, commonly called a PTPH, is usually the first main hearing in a Crown Court case. The defendant is normally asked to enter a plea, and the judge considers what must happen next. If you face a PTPH, early preparation with an experienced Crown Court criminal defence solicitor is important.
What happens when the charge is read?
The court clerk reads the charges on the indictment. This formal process is called arraignment. The defendant is asked to plead guilty or not guilty to each charge.
The Criminal Procedure Rules 2025 require the court to ensure that the effect of a guilty plea and the availability of credit for an early guilty plea have been explained in terms the defendant can understand. A plea should only be entered after proper legal advice based on the allegations and available evidence.
What happens after a not guilty plea?
When a not guilty plea is entered, the judge manages the case towards trial. Matters considered may include:
- the issues disputed by the defence;
- prosecution evidence and unused-material disclosure;
- witnesses and expert evidence;
- telephone, cell-site or other digital evidence;
- applications that may need to be made;
- the estimated length and date of the trial; and
- bail or custody arrangements.
The court can set deadlines that the prosecution and defence must follow. In a serious or complex prosecution, identifying evidential problems at an early stage can be essential.
What if the plea is guilty?
The judge may sentence immediately or adjourn for reports and further information. The consequences can be significant, so the defendant should understand the prosecution case, sentencing position and available mitigation before entering a plea.
Do I need a Crown Court solicitor at a PTPH?
The hearing can determine how the entire Crown Court case proceeds. Ghafar Khan can provide advice and representation in serious and complex criminal cases, including drug conspiracies, organised-crime allegations, money laundering, complex fraud, murder and cases involving telephone or cell-site evidence.
Legal aid may be available subject to eligibility, and an application can be submitted.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to attend the PTPH?
A defendant will ordinarily be required to attend unless the court directs otherwise. Never assume attendance is unnecessary; confirm the position with your solicitor.
Will my trial happen at the PTPH?
Usually not. If a not guilty plea is entered, the PTPH is used to prepare and timetable the case for trial.
Official information
This article provides general information and is not legal advice for an individual case.
Contact Ghafar Khan, Criminal Defence Solicitor and High Court Advocate. Call the 24/7 mobile on 07500 556587 or email notguilty@ghafarkhan.com. Acting throughout England and Wales. #CALLGFA