Now better than ever, the highly acclaimed Essential Magistrates' Courts Law has been updated to include developments in the law and practice of the magistrates' court since first published five years ago. Concise and accessible, it distils the law, practice and procedure of these courts in a straightforward way. All in one place it covers their framework and responsibilities and includes key changes in procedure, evidence, sentencing and the fair and efficient expediting of cases. This independent publication by experts in the field sets out information that goes beyond official or internal guidance and is based on practical experience of working in the courts. Its unique approach and readable style is invaluable for practitioners and students alike. In common use in the magistrates' courts of England and Wales. Garners core essential information in a single volume. An unrivalled aid to all who work in those courts. Praised across the summary justice system. With a new chapter on protest offences.