LOCAL INFORMATION
4.12.0
Magistrate's Court Procedures
Extent: Jersey
Updated: April 2017
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Words you may need to know
Magistrate's Court Greffier - This is the person who does the administration and makes sure that the court runs smoothly.
Summons - This is a legal written request demanding that you appear before the court.
Guilty - It is considered that the person carried out the crime
Innocent - It is considered that the person did not carry out the crime
Resolved – when a problem is sorted out
Centenier – a senior member of the Island’s honorary police
Previous – before, earlier in time
How the Magistrate's Court works
Mr David Le Heuzé is the Magistrate's Court Greffier, and his staff run the department on the Ground Floor of the Magistrate's Court, Union Street, St Helier. They prepare the Court Lists, summonses and can answer any questions you might have.
Telephone: 440080.
Witnesses
See other information at 4.6.4 - Witnesses and leaflet at 4.6.4 (B) Witness in Court
Disputed cases
When a person denies that they have done anything wrong the case will go to a trial.
Sometimes the person charged with the offence admits to doing it but does not believe that all the information or facts are correct. If this cannot be resolved in Court then, very rarely, a special hearing called ‘Newton Hearing’ is needed. See 4.12.0.L1 Newton Hearing
Who Prosecutes?
The cases are taken to court by either the Public Prosecutor or a Centenier. The Magistrate sits in judgement and makes decisions on guilt / innocence and decides sentencing.
Who are the Magistrates?
Magistrate - Bridget Shaw and the Assistant Magistrate - Peter Harris
What Penalties can they give?
A penalty is a form of punishment and if you are found guilty.
The Magistrate may fine you up to £10,000 or send you to prison for up to twelve months. How much or how long will depend on whether you have committed previous offences and the facts of each case.
