Although their precise duties may change from district to district, Magistrate Judges often conduct mediations, resolve discovery disputes, and decide a wide variety of motions; determine whether criminal defendants will be detained or released on a bond; appoint counsel for such defendants (and, in the misdemeanor ...

Who makes the decisions in the magistrates court?

At trial in the magistrates' court the verdict of 'guilty' or 'not guilty' is decided by the magistrates or District Judge. Where the trial is heard by magistrates, there must be at least two magistrates hearing the trial and each has an equal vote. There are no juries in the magistrates' court.

What power do magistrates have?

Magistrates' powers are limited to imposing six months' imprisonment (or twelve months aggregate sentences for triable either-way offences), or imposing unlimited fines. They also have a civil jurisdiction, in relation to family work, and the enforcement of child support and council tax payments.