Magistrates courts provide a platform for criminal offences. To be heard by a lay judge. This is a partially trained layperson.
The Magistrate’s Court has been known to be less lenient. This can lead to bias and unreasonable decisions. At least for some prospective clients.
For example, a person was accused of Assault or Harassment. It is possible gender bias would shape the decision. This does not mean all Lay Judges are the same. However, from experience.
The efforts provided by a well-experienced barrister may lead to a fairer outcome.
It is difficult to predict the out come of any case. When a specialist barrister reviews the whole case, they will be able to provide the case prospects. The prospects of the case will be assessed by a review of the papers. The papers may consist of the statements of cases from both parties. The initial police report. The notice of hearing. The court orders. The evidence involved. The advice of any specialist.
I have come across many instances where a case was with low prospects. The low prospects were deemed by a different solicitor or barrister. Some times the matter requires a second look. Other times the case was not prepared properly. This leads to case being appealed in the magistrates.
Taking a barrister to the Magistrates court will demonstrate to the judges. The seriousness behind your argument. If the argument provided by a prospective client is I did not mean to speed or I was going to lose my job if I did not speed. It is going to be taken as reckless behaviour. A barrister will prepare an argument based on the arguments that are most valid.
In some case, it’s essential to accept your at fault. Clients on occasion accept their position. However, they require leniency. The leniency can be sought by means of mitigation.
With the experience and knowledge of a barrister at the magistrate court. This can allow additional level of confidence.