All questions
uk_145
The UK Government, the Law and Your Role › The Law
What are Magistrates' Courts used for in England, Wales and Northern Ireland?
- Appeals from Crown Courts
- Cases involving government departments
- Major criminal trials and civil cases
- Minor criminal cases and some civil matters
Why this is the correct answer
Magistrates' Courts handle the majority of criminal cases in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including minor offences and some civil matters such as family proceedings. They are presided over by lay magistrates or a district judge. More serious criminal cases are passed up to Crown Court.