Long description

This figure consists of a series of boxes connected by arrows, showing the process of a criminal case through the courts. It begins with charge or summons, followed by the first hearings in the magistrates’ court. If the case remains in the magistrates’ court, and the defendant pleads guilty, the final stage is sentencing. If the defendant pleads not guilty, there will be a trial. If the defendant is found not guilty, the case ends. If the defendant is found guilty, the final stage is sentencing. If the case is sent to the Crown Court and the defendant pleads guilty, the final stage is sentencing. If the defendant pleads not guilty, there will be a trial. If the defendant is found not guilty, the case ends. If the defendant is found guilty, the final stage is sentencing.