NCTJ - Media Law - Court Reporting questions with answers 2024/2025

NCTJ - Media Law - Court ReportingName the three levels of crimes magistrates courts deal with - correct answer Summary offences - heard by the magistrates Either-way offences - Can stay in Magistrates or go to Crown Court Indictable-only - MUST be heard by Crown court, and usually only have an initial appearance before mags. What are Magistrate's powers? - correct answer Can sentence a person for up to 6 months for a single offence and a total of 12 months for more than one offence *if the sentences are to run consecutively* In the past magistrates could fine up to £5,000 but now there's no cap. Can also impose suspended prison orders, absolute discharge, conditional discharge and community orders How is bail decided by magistrates? - correct answer - It's assumed in law that most of the time bail should be granted - This might change if there is *a fear they may abscond, commit another offence or interfere with witnesses* - Bail usually has conditions, such as handing in your passport, residencies or reporting to a police station What the **** is a surety? - correct answer When a friend or family member pledges a sum of money which they forefeit if the defendant does not turn up at court Which court hears appeals against bail refused by magistrates? - correct answer CROWN COURT Explain a *summary* offence - correct answer - Minor offences with no rights to jury trial