At The Crown Court

You will appear in the Crown Court if the charge that you face is a charge that can only be dealt with in the Crown Court. Additionally, you may appear in the Crown Court if the magistrates decide that they cannot deal with your case or because you have chosen to be tried by a jury.

It is accepted that the chances of being found not guilty of a charge are higher in front of a jury in the Crown Court than in the Magistrates Court. The disadvantage of a Crown Court trial is that the trial date will be further ahead due to waiting lists in the Crown Court. It is also a more formal setting. However Foster Wells would be happy to advise and support you in these important decisions.

Again, where appropriate, an application will be made for legal aid on your behalf. In the Crown Court, your case will be prepared by our Crown Court team and presented either by a Barrister instructed to represent you or by a Solicitor Advocate from Foster Wells.